from ἀνά and πληρόω; to complete; by implication, to occupy, supply; figuratively, to accomplish (by coincidence ot obedience):--fill up, fulfill, occupy, supply.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anaplēróō**, represented by `{{G378}}`, means to complete, supply, occupy, or accomplish. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is versatile, covering actions from fulfilling a divine command to supplying a practical need.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G378}}` describes several distinct actions. It is used to signify the **fulfillment** of prophecy, as when the spiritual blindness of the people **fulfills** the words of Esaias [[Matthew 13:14]]. It also denotes the act of **supplying** what is lacking, such as when Epaphroditus's efforts **supply** the Philippians' **lack** of service toward Paul [[Philippians 2:30]]. The word can also mean to **occupy** a position, as in the context of an unlearned person who **occupies** a certain role or place in a church gathering [[1 Corinthians 14:16]]. In a darker context, it describes the **filling up** of sins to their limit, leading to God's wrath [[1 Thessalonians 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of `{{G378}}`:
* `{{G941}}` **bastázō** (to lift, literally or figuratively... bear, carry...): This action is directly linked to fulfilling the law. Believers are instructed to **bear** one another's burdens to **fulfil** the law of Christ [[Galatians 6:2]].
* `{{G5303}}` **hystérēma** (a deficit; specially, poverty... lack(-ing)...): This word for "lack" or "deficit" is what `{{G378}}` is often used to supply. Paul was glad because Stephanas and others **supplied** what was **lacking** on the part of the Corinthians [[1 Corinthians 16:17]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This is the object that is fulfilled through the actions of believers. By bearing burdens, believers actively **fulfil** the **law** of Christ [[Galatians 6:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G378}}` is demonstrated in its application to core Christian principles:
* **Active Obedience:** The command to **fulfil** the law of Christ is not a passive state but an active one, achieved by **bearing** the burdens of others [[Galatians 6:2]]. This connects fulfillment of the law to tangible acts of love and service.
* **Mutual Service:** The concept of **supplying** what is lacking underscores the interdependence of the body of Christ. One person's service can complete what another is unable to provide, as seen in Paul's relationship with the Philippian church [[Philippians 2:30]].
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** The word is used to show the accomplishment of God's prophetic word, even through human unbelief [[Matthew 13:14]]. It is also used to signify a final measure of sin being reached, after which judgment or **wrath** `{{G3709}}` inevitably comes [[1 Thessalonians 2:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G378}}` **anaplēróō** is a dynamic word that conveys completion and fulfillment in multiple dimensions. It encompasses the fulfillment of prophecy, the active obedience to Christ's law, the practical supplying of needs within the community of believers, and the grim completion of sin. Through its varied uses, it illustrates key aspects of Christian duty, divine purpose, and the consequences of human action.
TRV