### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G5250 (hyperpleonázō) is a compound word formed from the preposition ὑπέρ (hyper, meaning "over, above, beyond, exceedingly") and the verb πλεονάζω (pleonazō, meaning "to abound, to be in excess, to increase"). The pre-positive ὑπέρ serves as an intensive prefix, elevating the already strong meaning of "abound" to an extraordinary degree. Thus, hyperpleonázō conveys the sense of "to superabound," "to be exceeding abundant," "to overflow beyond measure," or "to be excessively plentiful." It suggests an abundance that is not merely sufficient, but overwhelmingly, immeasurably, and lavishly so. The semantic range points to a quantitative and qualitative excess, indicating a surplus that goes far beyond what is expected or necessary, often implying a divine generosity that knows no bounds.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G5250 (hyperpleonázō) appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's First Letter to Timothy:
* [[1 Timothy 1:14]]: "And the grace of our Lord *was exceeding abundant* with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus."
In this singular occurrence, Paul uses hyperpleonázō to describe the overwhelming nature of God's grace (χάρις, `{{G5485}}`) in his own life. Paul, who considered himself the "chief of sinners" ([[1 Timothy 1:15]]) due to his past persecution of the church, marvels at the immense and transformative power of divine grace. The verb emphasizes that God's grace did not merely abound for him, but *superabounded*—it was more than enough, it was lavish beyond comprehension, surpassing all his sin and unworthiness. This superabundance of grace was accompanied by "faith and love which is in Christ Jesus," indicating that God's grace is not an abstract concept but is intrinsically linked to active faith and Christ-centered love, enabling Paul's radical conversion and subsequent ministry. The context underscores the boundless mercy of God, capable of saving and transforming even the most unlikely individuals.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate G5250 (hyperpleonázō), it is helpful to consider its relationship to other Greek terms expressing abundance and excess:
* πλεονάζω (pleonazō, `{{G4121}}`): The base verb, meaning "to abound, to increase, to be more than enough." For example, [[Romans 5:20]] states that "where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" (using perisseuō for "much more abound," but pleonazō for "abounded"). hyperpleonázō intensifies this base meaning.
* περισσεύω (perisseuō, `{{G4052}}`): Meaning "to abound, to overflow, to be superfluous, to have in abundance." This is a very common word for abundance in the New Testament (e.g., [[Philippians 4:18]], [[2 Corinthians 9:8]]). While strong, hyperpleonázō suggests an even greater degree of abundance.
* ὑπερπερισσεύω (hyperperisseuō, `{{G5248}}`): Another intensive compound, meaning "to abound much more, to overflow exceedingly." This word is semantically very close to hyperpleonázō, both using the ὑπέρ prefix to denote an extreme degree of abundance (e.g., [[Romans 5:20]], [[2 Corinthians 7:4]]).
* χάρις (charis, `{{G5485}}`): Grace. This is the direct object of hyperpleonázō in [[1 Timothy 1:14]]. The superabundant nature of this grace is a central theme of Pauline theology.
* πλοῦτος (ploutos, `{{G4149}}`): Riches, wealth, often used in a spiritual sense to describe the richness of God's mercy or glory (e.g., [[Romans 9:23]], [[Ephesians 1:7]]).
These related terms collectively paint a picture of God's character as one who gives not merely adequately, but with boundless generosity and overflowing provision, especially concerning His saving grace.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of G5250 (hyperpleonázō) in [[1 Timothy 1:14]] carries profound theological weight, primarily underscoring the magnificent and immeasurable nature of God's grace. For Paul, who saw himself as the "foremost" of sinners, the fact that God's grace *superabounded* for him is a testament to its infinite capacity to redeem and transform. This concept challenges any notion of human merit or limitation on divine mercy.
Theological implications include:
1. **God's Boundless Grace:** hyperpleonázō asserts that God's grace is not merely sufficient for sin, but vastly overwhelms it. It is an active, dynamic, and inexhaustible force that far exceeds the magnitude of human transgression.
2. **Radical Transformation:** The superabundance of grace is what enabled Paul's dramatic conversion from persecutor to apostle. It demonstrates God's power to not only forgive but to empower individuals for divine service, regardless of their past.
3. **Assurance for Believers:** If God's grace superabounded for Paul, the "chief of sinners," then it is more than sufficient for any believer. This provides immense comfort and assurance, emphasizing that no sin is too great for God's grace to cover and overcome.
4. **Divine Generosity:** The word highlights God's character as a giver who bestows blessings in an overflowing, lavish manner, exceeding all human expectation and deservingness. It points to the infinite wealth of His love and mercy available in Christ Jesus.
### Summary
G5250 (hyperpleonázō) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to superabound" or "to be exceeding abundant." Though it appears only once in the New Testament, its singular occurrence in [[1 Timothy 1:14]] is profoundly significant. There, it describes the overwhelming and immeasurable nature of God's grace (χάρις, `{{G5485}}`) extended to Paul, the former persecutor. This term underscores that divine grace is not merely sufficient but is lavishly poured out, exceeding all human sin and unworthiness. It powerfully conveys the boundless generosity, transformative power, and infinite capacity of God's mercy, providing assurance that His grace is always more than enough for salvation and sanctification.
TRV