### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hopóte**, represented by `{{G3698}}`, is a temporal term meaning **when** or **as soon as**. It is derived from the words ὅς `{{G3739}}` and ποτέ. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3698}}` is in a response from Jesus `{{G2424}}`. When questioned, He answers `{{G611}}` by referencing a historical event to make a point. He asks, "Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, **when** himself was an hungred" [[Luke 6:3]]. Here, **hopóte** pinpoints the specific moment and circumstance of David's `{{G1138}}` action, framing it as a response to a time of need. The word functions as a precise temporal marker that is crucial to Jesus's argument.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of the passage:
* `{{G2424}}` **Iēsoûs** (Jesus, the name of our Lord): He is the speaker who employs `{{G3698}}` to draw a parallel between a past event and the present situation, asserting his authority to interpret scripture [[Luke 6:3]].
* `{{G1138}}` **Dabíd** (David, the Israelite king): The historical figure whose actions provide the precedent Jesus refers to. The word `{{G3698}}` introduces the specific time of his action [[Luke 6:3]].
* `{{G3983}}` **peináō** (to famish; figuratively, to crave): This describes the state of being "an hungred," which is the critical circumstance that is linked to the timing of the action by the word **when** [[Luke 6:3]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This signifies the action David "did" at the precise moment indicated by `{{G3698}}`, which forms the basis of Jesus's teaching in the passage [[Luke 6:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3698}}` is tied entirely to its single use, where it underpins a key teaching from Jesus.
* **Scriptural Precedent:** The word is used to anchor Jesus's argument in a specific, recorded moment. It highlights how a past event, "**when** David was an hungred," serves as a valid precedent for understanding God's principles [[Luke 6:3]].
* **Circumstantial Need:** By linking the action directly to a time of hunger `{{G3983}}`, **hopóte** emphasizes that need is a critical factor in evaluating actions. Jesus uses it to shift focus from legalistic observance to the underlying human condition.
* **Christ's Authority:** Jesus's use of this event, introduced by `{{G3698}}`, is an exercise of His authority. He interprets the scriptures to reveal their deeper meaning, demonstrating that He is the Lord who is able to rightly apply the law [[Luke 6:3]].
### Summary
In summary, while **hopóte** `{{G3698}}` is one of the rarest words in the Bible, its single use is pivotal. It functions as a hinge in Jesus's argument in [[Luke 6:3]], precisely connecting an action to the time of a specific need. This demonstrates how a single, carefully chosen temporal word can establish a theological precedent and reveal deeper truths about mercy and authority.
TRV