☀️
← Back to Lexicon
G1224 · Greek · New Testament
διαβαίνω
diabainō
Verb
To cross over / To pass through

Definition

The Greek verb diabainō (from dia = through + bainō = to go) means 'to cross over,' 'to pass through,' or 'to traverse.' It appears in the New Testament in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (the uncrossable chasm) and in Acts describing Paul's Macedonian call.

Usage & Theological Significance

Diabainō carries profound narrative weight at two key points: (1) The great chasm in the parable of Lazarus (Luke 16:26) that cannot be crossed emphasizes the finality of death and the irreversibility of eternal separation; (2) Paul's vision calling him to Macedonia ('Come over and help us') uses the same concept — a boundary being crossed for the sake of the gospel. One crossing is impossible; the other is urgent. Together they frame the Christian mission: there are uncrossable eternal divides, and there are boundaries the gospel must cross now.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 16:26 Between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able to do so, and none may cross from there to us.
Acts 16:9 A vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, 'Come over (diabainō) to Macedonia and help us.'
Hebrews 11:29 By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as on dry land.
John 5:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has crossed from death to life.
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️