### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἐλπίζω (elpízō)**, represented by `{{G1679}}`, means to **expect** or **confide**. It is derived from the noun for hope, ἐλπίς, and is most often translated as to **hope** or **trust**. It appears 35 times across 31 unique verses in the Bible, indicating its significant role in describing a believer's orientation toward God and the future.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1679}}` is used to define a trust that is anchored in a reliable source. It is frequently contrasted with false or uncertain hopes. For example, believers are charged not to **trust** in "uncertain riches," but rather "in the living God" [[1 Timothy 6:17]]. This hope is not a passive wish, but an active expectation tied to what is unseen. This is highlighted when the scripture explains that hope which is seen is not truly hope, for "what a man seeth, why doth he yet **hope for**?" [[Romans 8:24]]. The object of this hope is consistently God and his promised salvation through Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1679}}`:
* `{{G1680}}` **elpís** (hope): As the noun from which `{{G1679}}` is derived, it refers to the expectation or confidence a believer possesses. It is described as "Christ in you, the **hope** of glory" [[Colossians 1:27]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to believe): This term for having faith is a close partner to hope. In a description of love, it is said that it "**believeth** all things, **hopeth** all things" [[1 Corinthians 13:7]], showing the complementary nature of these actions.
* `{{G5281}}` **hypomonḗ** (patience): This word describes the cheerful and hopeful endurance required while waiting for what is hoped for. Scripture links these concepts directly, stating that if we **hope** for what we do not see, we wait for it with **patience** [[Romans 8:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1679}}` is foundational to the Christian life. It establishes where a believer's confidence should be placed.
* **The Object of Hope:** Biblical hope is definitively placed in God, not in human ability or worldly security. Believers are those who **trust** "in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men" [[1 Timothy 4:10]] and are warned against trusting in material things [[1 Timothy 6:17]].
* **Connection to Faith and Salvation:** Hope is presented as an inseparable component of salvation. Believers are "saved by hope" [[Romans 8:24]], which is given substance by faith in the unseen promises of God [[Hebrews 11:1]].
* **Future Orientation:** To **hope** is to look forward to the fulfillment of God's promises. This includes a steadfast expectation for deliverance from trials [[2 Corinthians 1:10]] and for the grace that will be revealed at the return of Jesus Christ [[1 Peter 1:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1679}}` moves beyond a simple desire for a positive outcome. It represents a firm and active trust placed in the character and promises of God. This act of hoping is a vital aspect of a believer's relationship with God, providing endurance through trials and a confident expectation of future deliverance and glory. It is the verb that puts faith into forward motion, looking toward the fulfillment of all that God has promised.
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