Divine Direction: ὑπάγω (Strong’s G5217: hypagō) Commands Purposeful Movement

Strong’s G5217: A compound verb combining ὑπό (under) and ἄγω (to lead/bring), meaning “to go away, depart, withdraw.” Used frequently in the Gospels for authoritative commands or purposeful departures, often carrying theological significance of submission to divine direction or strategic withdrawal.

U – Unveiling the Word

The verb ὑπάγω carries deep theological significance in its combination of “under” (ὑπό) and “to lead” (ἄγω), suggesting movement under authority or guidance. In the New Testament, it frequently appears in contexts of divine command or purposeful withdrawal, often marking pivotal moments in the ministry of Jesus. The word implies more than simple physical movement; it carries connotations of submission to divine authority and purposeful direction. The early church understood this term as representing both physical departure and spiritual obedience. Today, it reminds believers that our movements and decisions should be under divine guidance, emphasizing the importance of submissive obedience to the Lord’s direction.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ὑπάγω, hypagō, /hyˈpa.gɔː/
• Detailed pronunciation: hü-pä’-gō (where ü as in German über, ä as in father)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Prefix: ὑπό (hypo) meaning “under”
• Root: ἄγω (agō) meaning “to lead, bring, carry”
• Combination creates the sense of “to lead oneself under authority”

D – Defining Meanings

• To go away, depart
• To withdraw oneself
• To go one’s way
• To proceed from one place to another

For compound words: The prefix ὑπό (under) combined with ἄγω (to lead) creates the sense of movement under authority or guidance. The compound suggests voluntary submission in the act of departing.

Translation Options:

• “go away” – emphasizes the physical movement aspect
• “withdraw” – highlights the intentional nature of the departure
• “proceed under authority” – captures both movement and submission

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πορεύομαι (poreuomai) /po.reu.o.mai/ – to travel, journey – See G4198
• ἀπέρχομαι (aperchomai) /a.per.kho.mai/ – to go away, depart – See G565
• ἀναχωρέω (anachōreō) /a.na.kho.re.o/ – to withdraw, retire – See G402

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Features of this verb:

• Tense: Present (base form)
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative
• Person: First
• Number: Singular
• Aspect: Progressive/Continuous

The verb can appear in various forms:

• ὑπάγω – I go (present)
• ὑπῆγον – I was going (imperfect)
• ὕπαγε – Go! (imperative)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The major lexicons provide rich insight into ὑπάγω’s usage and significance. BDAG emphasizes its frequent occurrence in farewell contexts and authoritative commands. Thayer’s highlights its use in both literal and metaphorical movement. LSJ traces its classical usage, showing its development from simply “leading under” to its broader New Testament meanings. Vine’s notes its special use in John’s Gospel, where it often carries theological weight. Strong’s emphasizes the element of withdrawal or retirement. Moulton and Milligan document its common usage in everyday life through papyri evidence, showing how it maintained both its basic meaning of movement and its more nuanced implications of purposeful direction.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 4:10: “Then Jesus said to him, ‘Go away [ὑπάγω], Satan! For it is written, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.”‘”

Additional References:
Matthew 8:13, Mark 10:21, John 6:67, John 8:21, John 14:28

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word ὑπάγω beautifully captures the essence of purposeful movement under divine authority. In the Gospels, it often appears in contexts where Jesus gives authoritative commands or speaks of His own mission. This word reminds us that in the Kingdom of God, our movements and actions should be guided by submission to His authority. The good news of King Jesus includes the truth that He not only saves us but also guides our steps, leading us in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. When He commands us to “go,” we go under His authority and with His purpose.

D – Did You Know?

• ὑπάγω appears over 70 times in the New Testament
• It’s used most frequently in John’s Gospel, often in contexts of Jesus’ mission
• The imperative form ὕπαγε is often used by Jesus in healing narratives

Strong’s G5217: A compound verb combining ὑπό (under) and ἄγω (to lead/bring), meaning “to go away, depart, withdraw.” Used frequently in the Gospels for authoritative commands or purposeful departures, often carrying theological significance of submission to divine direction or strategic withdrawal.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: movement, authority, command, departure, divine direction, submission, purposeful action, biblical Greek, New Testament Greek, verbs of motion​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​