from a presumed compound of υἱός and a derivative of τίθημι; the placing as a son, i.e. adoption (figuratively, Christian sonship in respect to God):--adoption (of children, of sons).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **huiothesía**, represented by `{{G5206}}`, means **the placing as a son**, or adoption. It appears only **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, but it carries immense theological weight, defining the believer's new status in relation to God. The term describes Christian sonship, a position granted not by natural birth but by divine act.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5206}}` is presented in several distinct contexts. Historically, it is listed as a privilege that pertained to the Israelites, along with the covenants and the glory [[Romans 9:4]]. For believers in Christ, it is the result of a redemptive act; Christ came to **redeem** them that were under the law so that they might receive the **adoption of sons** [[Galatians 4:5]]. This adoption is not based on human effort but was **predestinated** by God according to His will through **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **Christ** `{{G5547}}` [[Ephesians 1:5]]. It is both a present reality, where believers receive the "Spirit of **adoption**" and cry "Abba, **Father** `{{G3962}}`" [[Romans 8:15]], and a future hope, as they wait for the final **adoption**, which is the redemption of the body [[Romans 8:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the scope of `{{G5206}}` adoption:
* `{{G1397}}` **douleía** (slavery...bondage): This word stands in direct contrast to adoption. Believers have not received a spirit of **bondage** leading back to fear, but the Spirit of adoption [[Romans 8:15]].
* `{{G1805}}` **exagorázō** (to buy up, i.e. ransom...redeem): This is the action that enables adoption. Christ came to **redeem** those under the law, making it possible for them to "receive the adoption of sons" [[Galatians 4:5]].
* `{{G629}}` **apolýtrōsis** ((the act) ransom in full...redemption): This term is explicitly linked to the future fulfillment of adoption. Believers groan while "waiting for the adoption, to wit, the **redemption** of our body" [[Romans 8:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5206}}` is profound, establishing a new relationship between God and humanity.
* **A Predestined Status:** Adoption is a core part of God's eternal plan, an act He **predestinated** `{{G4309}}` for believers according to the **good pleasure** `{{G2107}}` of His **will** `{{G2307}}` [[Ephesians 1:5]].
* **Freedom from Fear:** The "Spirit of adoption" replaces the "spirit of **bondage**" `{{G1397}}` which leads to **fear** `{{G5401}}`. It grants an intimate relationship with God, enabling believers to address Him as "Abba, **Father**" [[Romans 8:15]].
* **The Fruit of Christ's Work:** The adoption of sons is the direct purpose and outcome of Christ's work to **redeem** `{{G1805}}` those under the law [[Galatians 4:5]].
* **A Present and Future Reality:** Believers experience the spirit of adoption now, but they also look forward to its ultimate completion in the **redemption** `{{G629}}` of their bodies [[Romans 8:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5206}}` is a pivotal concept that signifies far more than a legal change in status. It defines the believer's new identity as a child of God, secured by the redemptive work of Christ and confirmed by the indwelling Spirit. This doctrine moves the believer from a position of fear and bondage to one of intimacy, inheritance, and a confident hope for future glory.
TRV