The meaning of “περιπατέω”
Understanding peripatéō reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
go, be occupied with, walk (about). - to tread all around, i.e. walk at large (especially as proof of ability) - figurat...
περιπατέω
go, be occupied with, walk (about). - to tread all around, i.e. walk at large (especially as proof of ability) - figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 14:25 | “And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.” Word: περιπατέω (peripatéō) | |
| Acts 3:12 | “And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?” Word: περιπατέω (peripatéō) | |
| Galatians 5:16 | “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Word: περιπατέω (peripatéō) | |
| 1 Thessalonians 4:1 | “Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.” Word: περιπατέω (peripatéō) | |
| 1 John 2:6 | “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” Word: περιπατέω (peripatéō) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Walk
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: To walk, go, live
The Hebrew halak (הָלַךְ) means to walk—a metaphor for one's manner of life. 'Enoch walked with God' (Genesis 5:24). God calls His people to 'walk in all his ways' (Deuteronomy 10:12).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: To walk, live, conduct oneself
The Greek peripateo (περιπατέω) means to walk—describing one's lifestyle. Believers are to 'walk in the Spirit' (Galatians 5:16), 'walk in love' (Ephesians 5:2), and 'walk in the light' (1 John 1:7).