Greek · Strong's G2064
ἔρχομαι
érchomai (ER-kho-my)
verb
To come or go, indicating movement toward or away from a place, person, or state, with a vast range of applications.
The Greek verb ἔρχομαι (erchomai) is a very common and foundational term in the New Testament, encompassing the actions of both "coming" and "going." Its semantic range is exceptionally broad, extending from literal physical movement to more figurative or metaphorical senses. It can describe a person’s arrival or departure, the onset of an event or time, or even the spiritual movement of individuals towards or away from God. The specific nuance of ἔρχομαι is often determined by its surrounding context and the prepositions with which it is coupled. In theological contexts, it frequently highlights the active participation and initiative of God or Christ in salvation history. For example, Jesus "came" into the world to save sinners, and he promises that he "will come again" in glory. Similarly, believers are called to "come" to him, indicating a response of faith and commitment. The idea of "coming" often implies an arrival with purpose or a realization of a divine plan. It can also signify the accessibility of God or the divine presence. The reciprocal notion of "going" can indicate a sending forth or a departure for a specific mission. Thus, the meaning of ἔρχομαι is not merely about physical motion, but about the significance and implications attached to that movement within a biblical narrative. Its ubiquity across different genres and authors underscores its importance in conveying foundational Christian concepts.
Common English renderings
- come
- go
- arrive
- enter
- appear
Key verses
"Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Henceforth ye shall see the Son of man sitting at the right hand of Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven."
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"And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And he that heareth, let him say, Come. And he that is athirst, let him come: he that will, let him take the water of life freely."
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"Jesus therefore cried in the temple, teaching and saying, Ye both know me, and know whence I am; and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not."
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"Tell ye the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, Meek, and riding upon an ass, And upon a colt the foal of an ass."
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"And the four living creatures, having each one of them six wings, are full of eyes round about and within: and they have no rest day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, isthe Lord God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come."
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