### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antanaplēróō**, represented by `{{G466}}`, means **to supplement** or **fill up**. This term is a compound of ἀντί and ἀναπληρόω. It is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific and focused meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G466}}` is found in [[Colossians 1:24]], where Paul states he can "now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and **fill up** that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church." In this context, the word conveys the idea of Paul's own sufferings supplementing, or filling up what was lacking, in the afflictions of Christ as they are applied to the benefit of the church.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Colossians 1:24]] help clarify the meaning of `{{G466}}`:
* `{{G3804}}` **páthēma** (suffering): This term refers to hardship or pain that is undergone. Paul's act of "filling up" is directly related to his **sufferings**, which he views as part of a fellowship with Christ [[Philippians 3:10]].
* `{{G5303}}` **hystérēma** (that which is behind): This word signifies a deficit, lack, or want. It is this "lacking" element of Christ's afflictions that Paul's own suffering supplements [[Colossians 1:24]]. This concept is also used to describe supplying a lack of service [[Philippians 2:30]].
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (affliction): This describes pressure or tribulation. The specific deficit being filled is related to the **afflictions** of Christ. Believers are told to be patient in **tribulation** [[Romans 12:12]], framing it as a part of the Christian experience.
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): This action is done for the sake of the church, which is identified as Christ's **body** [[Colossians 1:24]]. The church is the direct beneficiary of this supplementary suffering, as Christ is its head [[Colossians 1:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G466}}` is significant despite its single occurrence.
* **Vicarious Suffering for the Church:** The term describes a believer's suffering in their **flesh** `{{G4561}}` on behalf of the community of faith. Paul's suffering is specifically "for you" and "for his body's sake, which is the church" [[Colossians 1:24]].
* **Supplementing, Not Completing:** The act of "filling up" what is **behind** `{{G5303}}` refers to the application of Christ's afflictions, not that Christ's own work was incomplete. It is a participation in suffering for the edification of the **church** `{{G1577}}`.
* **Joy in Affliction:** Paul introduces this profound concept by stating he **rejoices** `{{G5463}}` in his sufferings. This reframes the act of "filling up" tribulation not as a grim duty, but as a ministry of joy undertaken for the sake of other believers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G466}}` provides a unique insight into the nature of Christian suffering. While appearing only once, it powerfully illustrates how a believer's afflictions can be seen as a joyful, supplementary act that serves the body of Christ. It connects the believer's personal hardship in the flesh directly to the well-being of the church, filling a role in the ongoing life of the faith.
TRV