πεζεύω (pezeuō)
pezeuō
to walk
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb pezeuō means to travel on foot, specifically distinguishing land travel from sea voyages or carriage rides. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Acts 20:13, where Luke notes that he went ahead to Assos by land while Paul sailed.
This rare word highlights the practical realities of ancient transportation. By specifying that someone traveled "on foot" or "by land," the text clarifies the mode of transit when sea travel was an alternative. It serves as a precise geographical marker, showing how early Christian missionaries navigated different routes to reach their destinations.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word pezeuō simply means to walk on foot. In Acts 20:13, Luke uses it to describe Paul’s decision to travel overland to Assos while the rest of the group sailed by ship. This small detail shows that early Christian missionaries did not rely on a single method of travel. They adapted their routes based on practical needs and divine guidance.
For your faith life, this reminds us that following God often involves different paths. Sometimes we move quickly; other times we walk slowly. Both are valid ways to obey. The focus is not on the speed or mode of travel, but on staying aligned with God’s direction. Whether you are in a season of rapid change or steady progress, your steps matter.
Paul’s choice to walk alone highlights the value of solitude and preparation. It was a time for him to pray and reflect before rejoining his team. This offers encouragement when you feel isolated or uncertain. Your quiet moments of walking with God are not wasted time. They are essential parts of your journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to go on foot.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πεζεύειν.1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 20:13
But we, going ahead to the ship, set sail for Assos, intending to take Paul aboard there; for he had so arranged, intending himself to go by land.
This verse uses pezeuō to specify Paul's intentional choice to travel overland, distinguishing his path from the sea voyage taken by the others.