### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hyperbaínō**, represented by `{{G5233}}`, means to transcend or, figuratively, to overreach. Its definition is "go beyond." This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant for understanding its specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5233}}` is in [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]], which commands, "That no man **go beyond** and defraud his brother in any matter." In this context, the word serves as a direct prohibition against overstepping ethical and relational boundaries with a fellow believer. It is immediately paired with the concept of defrauding, indicating an action that takes an unfair advantage. The verse continues by stating a clear consequence for this behavior, warning that "the Lord is the avenger of all such," a reality the author had previously "forewarned" them about.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text help clarify the meaning and gravity of `{{G5233}}`:
* `{{G4122}}` **pleonektéō** (to be covetous, i.e. (by implication) to over-reach): This word is used alongside `{{G5233}}` in [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]] to mean "defraud." It also appears in contexts warning against being taken advantage of by Satan [[2 Corinthians 2:11]] or making an unjust gain from others [[2 Corinthians 12:17]].
* `{{G1558}}` **ékdikos** (carrying justice out, i.e. a punisher): This term describes the Lord's role as the "avenger" for those who "go beyond" their brother [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]], establishing a divine consequence for the transgression.
* `{{G4277}}` **proépō** (to say already, to predict): The author emphasizes that this warning is not new, stating "we also have forewarned you" [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]], underscoring the importance of this teaching.
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote): This word specifies the object of the prohibition in [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]], identifying the "brother" as the one who should not be wronged, a term used frequently to refer to fellow believers [[Philippians 4:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5233}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
* **Ethical Boundaries:** The word establishes a clear moral line within the community of believers. To "go beyond" a "brother" is to violate a standard of conduct that is foundational to Christian fellowship.
* **Divine Accountability:** The transgression is not merely a horizontal offense against another person; it is an act that incurs divine judgment. The Lord himself is positioned as the "avenger" `{{G1558}}`, elevating the sin from a simple dispute to an offense against God's established order [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]].
* **Apostolic Instruction:** The warning against this behavior is presented as a repeated and solemn teaching. The use of "forewarned" `{{G4277}}` indicates that respecting these boundaries is a core component of discipleship that believers have already been instructed on.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G5233}}` is a rare term, its single use in [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]] provides a potent and focused teaching. It functions as a sharp warning against overreaching, exploiting, or defrauding a fellow believer. Contextualized by its link to divine retribution `{{G1558}}` and previous apostolic warnings `{{G4277}}`, **hyperbaínō** serves as a critical reminder of the high ethical standards and mutual accountability that are to characterize relationships within the faith.
TRV