A noun denoting a way by or past, passage, or the act of passing. Classical usage included mountain passes and the passage of time. First Corinthians 16:7 uses it in Paul's statement that he doesn't want to see the Corinthians merely 'in passing'—he hopes to spend time with them rather than make a brief visit. The term captures the difference between substantive presence and cursory contact, between investment and mere transit through their lives.