from ὑπό and ἀκούω; to hear under (as a subordinate), i.e. to listen attentively; by implication, to heed or conform to a command or authority:--hearken, be obedient to, obey.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G5219 (hypakoúō) is a compound verb formed from ὑπό (hypó), meaning "under," and ἀκούω (akoúō), meaning "to hear." This etymological foundation reveals its core meaning: "to hear under" or "to listen from a subordinate position." This is not merely passive hearing, but an attentive listening that implies a readiness to respond. Consequently, its semantic range extends to "to heed," "to conform to a command," and most prominently, "to obey." It signifies a responsive hearing, where the act of hearing leads directly to compliance or submission to an authority, whether divine or human. Unlike a simple act of hearing (akoúō), hypakoúō inherently involves a volitional response to what is heard, demonstrating an active and often willing submission.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G5219 (hypakoúō) appears frequently in the New Testament, illustrating various facets of obedience.
* **Obedience to Divine Authority:** A primary application is obedience to God or Christ. In [[Romans 6:16]], Paul contrasts serving sin with serving righteousness, stating that one becomes a slave to whom one hypakoúō (obeys). This highlights obedience as a fundamental choice of allegiance. Similarly, [[2 Corinthians 10:5]] speaks of bringing "every thought captive to the obedience of Christ," emphasizing a comprehensive submission of the mind. The "obedience of faith" (e.g., [[Romans 1:5]], [[Romans 16:26]]) suggests that faith is not merely intellectual assent but an active response of obedience to the gospel message. [[1 Peter 1:22]] connects purifying souls through obedience to the truth, leading to sincere brotherly love.
* **Obedience to Human Authority:** G5219 is also used for obedience within human societal structures. Children are exhorted to hypakoúō their parents in the Lord ([[Ephesians 6:1]], [[Colossians 3:20]]). Servants are to hypakoúō their earthly masters with fear and trembling ([[Ephesians 6:5]], [[Colossians 3:22]], [[Titus 2:9]]). Citizens are to hypakoúō rulers and authorities ([[Titus 3:1]]). In these contexts, the obedience is often presented as a demonstration of order, respect, and a reflection of one's ultimate obedience to God.
* **Demonic Submission:** Intriguingly, G5219 is used to describe the submission of unclean spirits to Jesus' authority ([[Mark 1:27]], [[Luke 8:25]]). This demonstrates the absolute power of Christ, to whom even malevolent spiritual forces hypakoúō.
Across these contexts, G5219 consistently denotes a responsive and active compliance, stemming from having heard a command or authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field surrounding G5219 (hypakoúō) includes several important terms:
* ἀκούω (akoúō - to hear) `{{G191}}`: This is the base word. While akoúō can simply mean to perceive sound, hypakoúō adds the dimension of responsive action or compliance. One can akoúō without hypakoúō.
* πείθω (peíthō - to persuade, to obey) `{{G3982}}`: While peíthō can mean "to obey," it often carries the nuance of being persuaded or trusting, leading to compliance. Hypakoúō is more direct, emphasizing the act of hearing and responding to a command.
* πειθαρχέω (peitharchéō - to obey authority) `{{G3980}}`: This word specifically denotes obedience to a ruler or authority figure. It is very close in meaning to hypakoúō when the latter refers to human authority, but hypakoúō has a broader range including divine commands and even demonic submission.
* ἀνυπακοή (anypakoē - disobedience) `{{G506}}`: This is the direct antonym, signifying a refusal to hear or comply, a state of rebellion or insubordination.
* In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word שָׁמַע (shama - to hear, to obey) `{{H8085}}` functions similarly to G5219, encompassing both the act of hearing and the resultant obedience, particularly in the context of hearing God's voice and commandments. The concept of "listening to the voice of the Lord" often implies obedience.
Theologically, G5219 is closely linked to concepts of authority, submission, faith, and discipleship. True faith is often demonstrated through obedience, and submission to God's will is a hallmark of a genuine relationship with Him.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G5219 (hypakoúō) is profound, underpinning much of New Testament ethics and soteriology.
* **The Nature of True Faith:** For the apostles, faith is not merely intellectual assent but an active, responsive obedience. The "obedience of faith" (e.g., [[Romans 1:5]]) signifies that saving faith inherently involves a surrender to Christ's Lordship and a willingness to follow His commands. It is the fruit, not the root, of salvation, demonstrating a heart transformed by grace.
* **Christ's Exemplary Obedience:** Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of hypakoúō. His entire life was characterized by perfect obedience to the Father, even "to the point of death, even death on a cross" ([[Philippians 2:8]]). His obedience reversed the disobedience of Adam ([[Romans 5:19]]), providing the means of salvation for all who believe and obey.
* **Discipleship and Sanctification:** Obedience is a cornerstone of discipleship. Believers are called to hypakoúō the truth ([[1 Peter 1:22]]) and to live lives characterized by obedience to God's will. This ongoing obedience is integral to the process of sanctification, where believers grow in conformity to Christ's image.
* **Order and Harmony:** In human relationships (family, church, society), hypakoúō contributes to order, harmony, and mutual respect. This obedience is not blind submission but a willing response to God-ordained authority, understood as part of His divine design for flourishing.
* **Love as Motivation:** Ultimately, Christian obedience is not a burdensome legalism but a joyful response rooted in love for God. As Jesus taught, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments" ([[John 14:15]]). G5219 thus points to a relationship where hearing God's voice leads to a loving, willing compliance.
### Summary
G5219 (hypakoúō) is a rich Greek term signifying "to hear under" or "to listen attentively," leading to compliance or obedience. Its etymology highlights a subordinate position in listening, implying a readiness to respond to authority. In biblical usage, it encompasses obedience to God, Christ, the Gospel, and various human authorities such as parents, masters, and rulers. The word emphasizes active, responsive compliance rather than mere passive hearing. Theologically, G5219 is central to understanding the nature of true faith, the exemplary life of Christ, the process of discipleship and sanctification, and the establishment of divine order in creation. It underscores that genuine faith manifests in a life of willing obedience, motivated by love and a deep reverence for the one who commands.
TRV