παράγω (paragō)

The verb paragō describes the simple act of passing by or going past something. In the Gospels, it frequently appears in narratives where Jesus encounters people on the road, such as when He walks past Matthew at his tax booth (Matthew 9:9) or when blind men call out as He passes by (Mark 10:46). The word captures a moment of physical movement through space, often highlighting the intersection of divine purpose with everyday human life.

Its meaning extends beyond mere motion to include leading others forward or aside. In Mark 1:16, Jesus calls Simon and Andrew, effectively leading them away from their nets and into a new path. This sense of guidance is also seen in John 9:1, where Jesus sees a man born blind as He passes by, initiating an act of healing that redirects the man’s destiny. The term can also mean to depart or pass away, as in 1 Corinthians 7:31, where the present form of this world is said to be passing away.

Etymologically, paragō combines para ("beside") and agō ("to lead" or "go"). This structure suggests moving alongside something before going past it. The word’s usage in Scripture often marks a turning point, where a casual encounter becomes a significant moment of intervention. Translators typically render it as "pass by," preserving the straightforward nature of the action while allowing the context to reveal its deeper significance.