### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypantáō**, represented by `{{G5221}}`, means to go opposite to meet or encounter someone. Its base definition is from ὑπό and a derivative of ἀντί; to go opposite (meet) under (quietly), i.e. to encounter, fall in with:--(go to) meet. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently describing a significant meeting, often with Jesus.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5221}}` is used to illustrate different types of encounters with Christ. It describes confrontational meetings, such as when Jesus was **met** by two men possessed with devils coming out of the tombs [[Matthew 8:28]] and a similar event with a man who had devils for a long time [[Luke 8:27]]. It also portrays intentional encounters driven by faith or curiosity. For example, when Martha heard Jesus was coming, she went and **met** him [[John 11:20]]. Similarly, a crowd **met** Jesus specifically because they heard he had performed a great miracle [[John 12:18]]. The significance of such a meeting is reinforced when a location is identified as the place where Martha **met** him [[John 11:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action of meeting:
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This verb often sets the stage for the encounter, describing the movement of Jesus that prompts others to meet him. Martha went to meet Jesus upon hearing that he **was coming** `{{G2064}}` [[John 11:20]].
* `{{G1831}}` **exérchomai** (to issue, come forth, out): This word frequently describes the action of the person initiating the meeting. The demon-possessed men were **coming** `{{G1831}}` from the tombs when they met Jesus [[Matthew 8:28]], and a man **went forth** `{{G1831}}` from the city to meet him [[Luke 8:27]].
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): Hearing is often the catalyst for the encounter. The people **met** `{{G5221}}` Jesus because they **heard** `{{G191}}` about his miracle [[John 12:18]], and Martha's action was a direct result of what she **heard** `{{G191}}` [[John 11:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5221}}` is centered on the significance of a direct encounter with Jesus Christ.
* **A Divine Intersection:** In every one of its uses, the word describes an encounter between a person or people and Jesus. This elevates the action from a simple meeting to a pivotal moment of interaction with the divine.
* **Confrontation and Response:** The act of meeting Jesus always prompts a significant outcome. It results in the confrontation of demonic forces [[Matthew 8:28]] or serves as the precursor to a profession of faith, as with Martha [[John 11:20]].
* **Purposeful Action:** The word is used to describe both those who purposefully seek out Jesus, like the crowd responding to his miracles [[John 12:18]], and those who simply cross his path. In either case, the meeting itself is the turning point of the narrative.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5221}}` is more than a term for a simple greeting; it signifies a critical point of convergence. Whether initiated by a desperate individual, a curious crowd, or a demonic power, the act of **hypantáō** marks the moment when humanity comes face-to-face with Jesus. Each use in Scripture highlights a consequential encounter that reveals Christ's authority and prompts a definitive response.
TRV