The Greek word hyméteros, represented by G5212, is a possessive term defined as yours, i.e. pertaining to you:--your (own). It is derived from the Greek word for "you" (ὑμεῖς). Though used sparingly, appearing just 10 times in 10 unique verses, it serves a critical function in assigning ownership or association to the audience being addressed.
In scripture, G5212 is used to establish clear distinctions and define possession. Jesus employs it to contrast his divine timing with human readiness, stating, "My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready" John 7:6. It is also used to confer a blessing, as when Jesus tells his disciples, "Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God" Luke 6:20. The term can also refer to a shared law or custom, as when Jesus refers to "your law" John 8:17. In Luke 16:12, it is contrasted with what belongs to another, posing the question of who can be trusted with that which is "your own."
Several related words help clarify the concept of possession and relationship:
- G1699 emós (my): This is the first-person singular counterpart to G5212, establishing what belongs to the speaker. It is often used in direct contrast, as in "My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready" John 7:6.
- G2257 hēmōn (of (or from) us): This is the first-person plural possessive, "our," which defines group ownership for the speaker and their companions. It is used in phrases like "the God of our Lord Jesus Christ" Ephesians 1:17.
- G245 allótrios (another's, i.e. not one's own): This word signifies something that belongs to someone else and serves as a direct opposite to both personal and group ownership. It is used in Luke 16:12 to contrast what is another man's with what is "your own" G5212.
The significance of G5212 lies in its ability to assign specific spiritual realities, responsibilities, and attributes to the audience.
- Contrasting Identity: The word is frequently used to draw a sharp line between the speaker's domain and the audience's. Jesus distinguishes between his saying and yours John 15:20, and between his time and your time John 7:6, clarifying different spheres of operation and authority.
- Defining Inheritance: It is used to declare what rightfully belongs to believers as a result of their faith. The promise that "yours is the kingdom of God" directly assigns this inheritance to the "poor" in spirit Luke 6:20.
- Assigning Responsibility: The term assigns ownership of actions, laws, and even physical bodies. Paul speaks of the Judaizers' desire to glory in "your flesh" Galatians 6:13, and he challenges the Corinthians to prove the sincerity of "your love" 2 Corinthians 8:8.
In summary, G5212 is a precise term that moves beyond simple possession. It is a relational word that defines boundaries, confers blessings, and assigns accountability. Whether referring to a law John 8:17, a time John 7:6, an inheritance Luke 6:20, or a spiritual attribute like mercy Romans 11:31, hyméteros clarifies exactly to whom a thing, concept, or responsibility belongs.
TRV