### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **antílytron**, represented by `{{G487}}`, is a precise term for a **redemption-price** or **ransom**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage highly significant. Derived from the words ἀντί (meaning "instead of" or "in exchange for") and λύτρον (meaning "ransom"), the term carries the specific idea of a substitutionary payment made to achieve release.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G487}}` is in [[1 Timothy 2:6]], where it defines the nature of Christ's sacrifice. The verse states that Christ "gave himself a **ransom** for all." This context establishes that the ransom was not an object or an impersonal payment, but Christ himself. The act is presented as a voluntary offering made on behalf of "all," with its significance to be revealed as a testimony in God's appointed time.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used in conjunction with `{{G487}}` in its only scriptural context illuminate its meaning:
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This word highlights the voluntary nature of the ransom. Christ was not taken, but **gave** himself as an offering [[1 Timothy 2:6]]. This same word is used to describe God’s action of love in **giving** His only Son [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G1438}}` **heautoû** (himself): This reflexive pronoun emphasizes the personal and sacrificial cost of the ransom. The payment was not something Christ possessed, but **himself** [[1 Timothy 2:6]]. This concept is echoed in [[Galatians 2:20]], which speaks of the Son of God who "gave **himself** for me."
* `{{G3956}}` **pâs** (all): This term defines the comprehensive scope of the ransom. It was offered "for **all**" [[1 Timothy 2:6]], indicating its universal availability. This corresponds with God's desire for **whosoever** believes to have eternal life [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G5228}}` **hypér** (for, on behalf of): This preposition clarifies that the ransom was a substitutionary act. It was given **for** the sake of others, or in their place [[1 Timothy 2:6]]. This is consistent with Christ's death **for** sinners, as described in [[Romans 5:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G487}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use. It conveys several core truths:
* **Substitutionary Sacrifice:** The word's composition ("from ἀντί and λύτρον") inherently means a "ransom paid in place of" someone else. Christ's offering of himself was a direct substitution for humanity [[1 Timothy 2:6]].
* **Universal Provision:** The ransom is explicitly stated to be "for **all**" [[1 Timothy 2:6]]. This sacrificial act provides the basis for salvation for every person.
* **Sovereign Timing:** The revelation of this ransom is described as a "testimony `{{G3142}}` in due `{{G2398}}` time `{{G2540}}`" [[1 Timothy 2:6]]. This places the event within God's sovereign plan, unveiled at the proper and appointed moment in history.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G487}}` is far more than a simple synonym for payment. Though appearing only once, **antílytron** is a theologically dense word that precisely defines Christ's death as a substitutionary **ransom**. Its meaning is profoundly enriched by the surrounding context in [[1 Timothy 2:6]], which presents this act as a personal gift, given for all people according to God's perfect timing.
TRV