### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G5226}}` (hypeíkō) is a compound word derived from the preposition `{{G5259}}` (hypó), meaning "under," and the verb εἴκω (eikō), which signifies "to yield," "to give way," or "to retreat." Etymologically, it conveys the sense of giving way *under* pressure, force, or authority. Its primary semantic range includes "to surrender," "to submit," "to yield," or "to comply." In classical Greek, it often described a military retreat or a giving way in an argument or contest. The underlying notion is one of concession, often reluctant, due to a superior force or compelling circumstance. While it shares conceptual space with other words for submission, `{{G5226}}` specifically highlights the act of yielding to an external influence or demand, rather than an inherent disposition of obedience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G5226}}` (hypeíkō) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Galatians 2:5]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant for understanding the apostle Paul's unwavering commitment to the purity of the gospel message. The context involves Paul's account of his visit to Jerusalem, where he confronted certain "false brothers" who had infiltrated the Christian community and were advocating for the necessity of circumcision for Gentile believers. Paul states, "to them we did not yield in submission even for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might remain with you" ([[Galatians 2:5]]).
Here, `{{G5226}}` describes Paul's resolute refusal to concede to the demands of these legalists. The phrase "did not yield in submission" (οὐδὲ πρὸς ὥραν εἴξαμεν τῇ ὑποταγῇ) emphasizes a complete and immediate rejection of their doctrine. Paul understood that to "yield" or "submit" to their insistence on circumcision would compromise the fundamental truth that salvation is by grace through faith alone, apart from works of the law. His unyielding stance was not a matter of personal stubbornness but a defense of the integrity of the gospel for all believers, particularly the Gentiles. This single usage underscores the critical importance of discerning when to submit and when to stand firm, especially when core theological truths are at stake.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words convey ideas related to submission, obedience, or yielding, but `{{G5226}}` carries a unique nuance.
* `{{G5293}}` (hypotássō): This is a much more common word for "to subject oneself," "to obey," or "to arrange under." It often denotes a voluntary act of submission to a legitimate authority (e.g., wives to husbands, church to Christ, citizens to governing authorities). Unlike `{{G5226}}`, which can imply yielding under duress or pressure, `{{G5293}}` often suggests an ordered or volitional submission.
* `{{G3980}}` (peitharchéō): Meaning "to obey authority," this word emphasizes compliance with commands or rules, often in a governmental or hierarchical context.
* `{{G5219}}` (hypakoúō): Signifying "to listen under" or "to obey," it highlights the act of hearing and responding positively to a command or instruction.
In contrast to these words, which often describe appropriate and voluntary submission, `{{G5226}}` in [[Galatians 2:5]] signifies a *refusal* to yield to an illegitimate demand that would undermine the truth. Its antonyms in this context would be concepts like resistance, defiance, steadfastness, or standing firm (e.g., `{{G2476}}` - histēmi, "to stand"). The specific choice of `{{G5226}}` highlights the pressure Paul was under to conform, and his decisive rejection of that pressure.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5226}}` (hypeíkō) in [[Galatians 2:5]] is profound and multifaceted. It serves as a powerful testament to the non-negotiable nature of the gospel of grace. Paul's refusal to "yield in submission" (οὐδὲ πρὸς ὥραν εἴξαμεν τῇ ὑποταγῇ) against the demands of the Judaizers illustrates several critical theological principles:
1. **The Purity of the Gospel:** The primary reason for Paul's unyielding stance was "so that the truth of the gospel might remain with you." This demonstrates that the gospel of justification by faith alone, apart from works of the law, is not subject to human compromise or addition. Any attempt to add requirements (like circumcision) fundamentally distorts the nature of God's grace and Christ's finished work.
2. **Apostolic Authority and Discernment:** Paul, as an apostle, exercised divine discernment in recognizing the threat posed by the false brothers. His steadfastness was not merely personal conviction but an authoritative defense of divine revelation.
3. **Christian Liberty vs. Legalism:** The passage highlights the conflict between the liberty found in Christ and the bondage of legalism. To yield to the demand for circumcision would have imposed an unnecessary burden on Gentile believers and negated the freedom Christ provides.
4. **Courage and Conviction:** The single use of `{{G5226}}` underscores the courage required to uphold biblical truth, even when facing significant pressure from within the religious community. It teaches believers the importance of standing firm on foundational doctrines, even if it means resisting popular or influential opinions.
5. **The Nature of True Submission:** While believers are called to submit to God and legitimate human authorities, `{{G5226}}` in this context clarifies that there are times when *not* yielding to false teaching or unbiblical demands is the truest form of obedience to God. It distinguishes between healthy submission and compromising complicity.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G5226}}` (hypeíkō), meaning "to yield," "to surrender," or "to give way under pressure," holds a singular yet pivotal place in the New Testament. Its sole appearance in [[Galatians 2:5]] vividly portrays the apostle Paul's unwavering commitment to the integrity of the gospel message. In this critical passage, Paul emphatically states that he and Barnabas "did not yield in submission even for a moment" to those who sought to impose circumcision on Gentile believers. This resolute refusal was not an act of defiance for its own sake, but a necessary defense of the truth that salvation is by grace through faith alone, thereby safeguarding the purity of the gospel for all future generations. The use of `{{G5226}}` here powerfully illustrates the theological imperative to stand firm against any compromise that would dilute or distort the foundational tenets of Christian faith, even when facing significant pressure.
TRV