### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hýparxis**, represented by `{{G5223}}`, refers to existency or proprietorship, and more concretely to **property, wealth, goods, or substance**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, making its specific contexts highly significant for understanding its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5223}}` is applied to both material and spiritual possessions. In Acts, it describes the material **goods** that the early believers sold to care for one another, parting them to all as every man had need [[Acts 2:45]]. In Hebrews, the word takes on a spiritual dimension, referring to the heavenly **substance** that believers possess. The readers are commended for joyfully accepting the loss of their earthly goods, knowing they have a better and enduring **substance** in heaven [[Hebrews 10:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of possessions and their value:
* `{{G5224}}` **hypárchonta** (things which one possesseth): This is a closely related term for property or possessions. In [[Hebrews 10:34]], it refers to the earthly "**goods**" that believers saw spoiled, which they contrasted with their eternal `{{G5223}}` substance.
* `{{G2933}}` **ktēma** (possession): This word for an acquirement or estate is used in tandem with `{{G5223}}` in [[Acts 2:45]], where the early church sold their "**possessions** and goods" for the sake of the community.
* `{{G724}}` **harpagḗ** (spoiling): This term for pillage describes the plundering of property. In [[Hebrews 10:34]], believers are noted for joyfully accepting the "**spoiling**" of their goods, showing their greater hope in what is eternal.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5223}}` is centered on the Christian's relationship with wealth and possessions.
* **Communal Generosity:** The use in [[Acts 2:45]] establishes a powerful example of the early church's perspective on material wealth, where personal **goods** were held loosely and used to meet the needs of others within the community.
* **Eternal Versus Temporal Wealth:** [[Hebrews 10:34]] presents a core theological contrast. The loss of earthly possessions is met with joy, because believers know `{{G1097}}` they have a "better" `{{G2909}}` and "enduring" `{{G3306}}` **substance** `{{G5223}}` waiting for them in "heaven" `{{G3772}}`.
* **A Heavenly Hope:** The word ultimately points believers toward a hope that is not based on earthly proprietorship. The true **substance** of a believer is secure and of infinitely greater value than any material thing that can be taken away.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5223}}` is a focused term that, despite its rare use, provides a profound insight into a biblical view of wealth. It encompasses both the tangible, earthly **goods** that should be stewarded with generosity [[Acts 2:45]] and the superior, eternal **substance** that gives believers joy and endurance through earthly trials [[Hebrews 10:34]]. The word challenges the faithful to value their heavenly inheritance above all else.
TRV