### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hēmōn**, represented by `{{G2257}}`, functions as the genitive case of the plural pronoun "we," translating to **of us** or **our**. It appears **410 times** across **365 unique verses**, playing a critical role in establishing possession, relationship, and collective identity for believers in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical text, `{{G2257}}` is used to define relationships and ownership in key spiritual contexts. It identifies God as "**Our** Father" [[Matthew 6:9]] and Jesus as "**our** Lord" [[Romans 6:23]]. It is also used to claim both the burdens and blessings of the faith, as seen in references to "**our** sins" [[1 Peter 2:24]], "**our** infirmities" [[Romans 8:26]], and "**our** salvation" [[Romans 13:11]]. The term is frequently used to show God's direct action on behalf of believers, such as when Christ died "for **us**" [[Romans 5:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related forms of the same pronoun appear in different grammatical cases, building upon the collective identity established by `{{G2257}}`:
* `{{G2249}}` **hēmeîs** (we): The nominative case, used when believers are the subject of a verb. For example, it is used to state that "**we** might be made the righteousness of God" [[2 Corinthians 5:21]].
* `{{G2248}}` **hēmâs** (us): The accusative case, used as the direct object of an action. Christ "hath redeemed **us**" [[Galatians 3:13]], and God has "saved **us**" [[2 Timothy 1:9]].
* `{{G2254}}` **hēmîn** (to us, for us): The dative case, used as the indirect object. It signifies that God's love is given "unto **us**" [[Romans 5:5]] and sins are forgiven "us" [[1 John 1:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2257}}` is foundational to understanding the Gospel. It connects believers directly to the work of God in several ways:
* **Substitutionary Atonement:** The pronoun directly links Christ's sacrifice to believers. He "bare **our** sins in his own body on the tree" [[1 Peter 2:24]], "gave himself for **our** sins" [[Galatians 1:4]], and died "for **us**" while we were still sinners [[Romans 5:8]].
* **Corporate Identity:** The word unites believers under a common spiritual headship and family. Scripture speaks of "**our** Lord Jesus Christ" [[1 Corinthians 1:10]], "**our** Father" [[Galatians 1:4]], and "**our** great God and Saviour" [[Titus 2:13]], establishing a shared relationship with the Trinity.
* **Divine Relationship:** `{{G2257}}` defines the intimate connection between God and His people. The Holy Spirit is poured into "**our** hearts" [[Romans 5:5]], the Spirit intercedes "for **us**" [[Romans 8:26]], and God is ultimately "for **us**" [[Romans 8:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2257}}` is a vital term that moves beyond simple grammar to define the very nature of the Christian faith. It expresses a shared reality, identifying what belongs to "**us**" as believers—from **our** sin to **our** salvation—and what has been done for "**us**" through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. It is the pronoun of the unified body of Christ.
TRV