The Greek word hypereídō, represented by G5237, means to overlook or not punish, often translated as to wink at. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 times in 1 unique verses in the Bible. The word is formed from ὑπέρ and εἴδω, conveying the idea of looking over something, in this case, a period of human ignorance.
The sole appearance of G5237 is in Acts 17:30, which states that God winked at the times of ignorance but now issues a new command. This action of "winking at" describes a period when God chose not to punish humanity's lack of knowledge. The verse establishes a clear contrast between God's past posture of overlooking this ignorance and His present command for all people to repent.
Several related words from its only context in Acts 17:30 clarify its meaning:
- G52 ágnoia (ignorance): This is the specific condition that God previously winked at or overlooked.
- G5550 chrónos (times): This word establishes that God's overlooking of ignorance G52 pertained to a specific space of time or interval.
- G3340 metanoéō (repent): This is the new, universal command that follows the period of being winked at, marking a required change in thinking.
- G2316 theós (God): The term identifies the supreme Divinity as the one who formerly winked at ignorance and now commands repentance.
The theological weight of G5237 is concentrated in its single use, highlighting a significant shift in divine administration.
- Divine Forbearance: The act of "winking at" signifies God's patience and forbearance during past "times of this ignorance" G52 Acts 17:30.
- A New Dispensation: The use of "but now" G3569 in Acts 17:30 signals a decisive turning point. The era of God overlooking ignorance has concluded.
- Universal Mandate: God's shift from "winking at" to actively commanding G3853 underscores the new requirement for all G3956 men G444 every where G3837 to repent G3340.
In summary, G5237 is a concise and powerful term for divine forbearance. Its single biblical appearance in Acts 17:30 is pivotal, defining a historical moment of transition. The word illustrates the shift from an era where God overlooked human ignorance G52 to a new covenant reality where a universal call to repent G3340 is commanded by God G2316 for all humanity.
TRV