### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hópou**, represented by `{{G3699}}`, is a term used to define a location or spot, meaning **in what place, where, or whither**. It appears 82 times across 77 unique verses in the Bible. This adverb is derived from the words ὅς and πού and is used to denote both specific, physical locations and figurative or conditional states.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G3699}}` is used to specify precise geographical and situational contexts. It points to the empty tomb after the resurrection, inviting the disciples to "see the place **where** the Lord lay" [[Matthew 28:6]]. It identifies locations of ministry, such as Bethabara "**where** John was baptizing" [[John 1:28]] and Thessalonica "**where** was a synagogue of the Jews" [[Acts 17:1]]. The word also functions in a broader, more indefinite sense, as in following the Lamb "**whithersoever** he goeth" [[Revelation 14:4]], and in parables to describe conditions, such as sowing seed "**where** it had not much earth" [[Mark 4:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of location and place:
* `{{G4226}}` **poû** (where, whither): This interrogative adverb asks "at what locality?" It is often used to question a location, whereas `hópou` typically defines a relative one. For instance, in [[Luke 22:11]], the question is asked, "**Where** (poû) is the guestchamber, **where** (hópou) I shall eat?"
* `{{G5117}}` **tópos** (place): This noun refers to a specific spot, location, or room. It is often used in conjunction with `{{G3699}}` to first name the location and then describe what occurs there, as seen in the phrase "the **place** `{{G5117}}` **where** `{{G3699}}` the Lord lay" [[Matthew 28:6]].
* `{{G4159}}` **póthen** (whence): This adverb signifies origin, asking "from which place?" It provides a contrast to `hópou`, as seen in [[John 3:8]], which distinguishes between "**whence** it cometh" and "**whither** it goeth," while also stating the wind blows "**where** it listeth."
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3699}}` is demonstrated by its use in defining spiritual realities and divine promises.
* **Earthly vs. Heavenly Realms:** Jesus uses the word to contrast temporary, earthly storage with eternal, heavenly security. He instructs believers not to lay up treasures on earth "**where** moth and rust doth corrupt," but in heaven "**where** neither moth nor rust doth corrupt" [[Matthew 6:19-20]]. This establishes a clear distinction between two spiritual locations for one's ultimate treasure.
* **The Presence of Christ:** The promise of eternal fellowship with Jesus is tied to a shared location. Christ assures his disciples that he goes to prepare a place so that "**where** I am, there ye may be also" [[John 14:3]]. This promise is reiterated in his prayer that believers would be with him "**where** I am; that they may behold my glory" [[John 17:24]].
* **Defining Spiritual States:** The word is used to describe conditions of the heart and community. The presence of "envying, and strife, and divisions" is **where** carnality is evident [[1 Corinthians 3:3]]. Conversely, in Christ, there is a spiritual state "**where** there is neither Greek nor Jew" [[Colossians 3:11]], signifying a place of ultimate unity. The word also marks places of spiritual warfare, such as "**where** Satan's seat is" [[Revelation 2:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3699}}` serves as more than a simple geographical marker. It functions to pinpoint locations of critical events, such as the crucifixion [[John 19:18]] and resurrection [[Mark 16:6]]. Furthermore, it transitions from the physical to the spiritual, defining the state of the human heart [[Matthew 6:21]], the reality of unity in the body of Christ [[Colossians 3:11]], and the promised destination of every believer: to be in the very place where Christ himself is [[John 12:26]].
TRV