The Greek word apophérō, represented by G667, means to bear off. Derived from ἀπό and φέρω, its base definition is to carry away, either literally or relatively. It appears 7 times in 5 unique verses, often describing a purposeful transport from one place or state to another.
In its scriptural usage, G667 signifies several kinds of transport. It is used to describe the transfer of a person into custody, as when the chief priests bound Jesus and carried him away to be delivered to Pilate Mark 15:1. The word also depicts supernatural movement, such as when the beggar was carried by angels into Abraham's bosom after his death Luke 16:22. In the book of Revelation, John is twice carried away in the spirit to receive divine visions, first into the wilderness Revelation 17:3 and then to a great and high mountain Revelation 21:10. Finally, it can describe a more conventional act of transport, such as the plan to bring the church's liberality to Jerusalem 1 Corinthians 16:3.
Several related words help clarify the context in which G667 is used:
- G32 ángelos (a messenger; especially an "angel"): This word identifies the agents who carry the beggar's soul, highlighting the supernatural nature of the transport Luke 16:22.
- G3860 paradídōmi (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit): This term is used immediately after G667 in the account of Jesus' arrest, where he is carried him away and then delivered to Pilate, showing a sequence of transport and surrender Mark 15:1.
- G599 apothnḗskō (to die off): This word for dying sets the stage for the use of G667. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, both men died, but only the beggar is described as being carried away to a place of comfort Luke 16:22.
The conceptual significance of G667 is tied to the theme of transition and external agency.
- Supernatural Transport: The word is frequently associated with movement that is not of human origin. An individual can be carried away by angels Luke 16:22 or "in the spirit" Revelation 17:3, indicating that a divine or spiritual power is initiating the action.
- Transition of State: Using G667 often marks a critical shift. For the beggar, it is the transition from a life of suffering to the afterlife Luke 16:22. For Jesus, it is the move from the Jewish authorities to the Roman governor, a pivotal moment in his passion Mark 15:1.
- Purposeful Delivery: The action is not aimless. Whether it is bringing a gift to Jerusalem 1 Corinthians 16:3 or moving a soul to its destination, the "carrying away" is directed and has a clear objective.
In summary, G667 does more than simply denote movement. It describes a purposeful act of "bearing off," often initiated by an external force to bring someone or something to a new location, state, or authority. From the physical delivery of a person to a legal authority to the spiritual transport of a soul, the word captures a definitive and significant transition.
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