The Greek verb ἀναχωρέω (anachōreō) means “to withdraw,” “to depart,” or “to retreat.” It is derived from the prefix ἀνά (ana), meaning “up” or “back,” and the root χωρέω (chōreō), meaning “to go” or “to make room.” The term generally refers to the action of moving away from a place, often implying a temporary or strategic withdrawal.

Detailed Overview

According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀναχωρέω (G402) is used in the New Testament to describe the act of withdrawing or retreating from a location. For example, in Matthew 15:21, Jesus withdraws to the region of Tyre and Sidon, indicating a departure from the previous location. Similarly, in Mark 7:24, Jesus seeks privacy by withdrawing to a house in Tyre. This reflects the term’s use in the context of moving away or seeking refuge.

The Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon provides additional insights by noting that ἀναχωρέω involves the idea of moving away or withdrawing from a place, often for strategic or temporary reasons. BDAG highlights its application in contexts where there is a deliberate action of leaving or retreating, which can be due to various reasons, including avoiding conflict or seeking solitude.

The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon supports this interpretation by describing ἀναχωρέω as relating to the act of withdrawing or departing from a location. The lexicon emphasizes its use in contexts where there is a notable retreat or movement away from a place, whether for practical or strategic purposes.

In summary, ἀναχωρέω primarily means “to withdraw,” “to depart,” or “to retreat,” reflecting actions of moving away or seeking a different location. This meaning is consistently supported by Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, and LSJ, each providing context for its use in describing strategic or temporary withdrawals in biblical and classical Greek literature.