### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G5251}}` (hyperypsóō) is a powerful compound word, formed from the preposition `{{G5228}}` (hyper), meaning "over," "above," or "beyond," and the verb `{{G5250}}` (hypsóō), meaning "to lift up" or "to exalt." The prefix hyper- functions as an intensifier, elevating the meaning of the base verb to a superlative degree. Thus, `{{G5251}}` signifies "to highly exalt," "to super-exalt," or "to elevate to the highest possible position or rank." It implies an exaltation that transcends all other forms of elevation, placing the subject in a uniquely supreme and preeminent status. The core semantic range therefore encompasses not merely an ascent, but an ultimate, unparalleled elevation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Remarkably, `{{G5251}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in the profound Christological hymn found in Paul's letter to the Philippians: "Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name" [[Philippians 2:9]]. This solitary occurrence underscores its immense theological weight and specific application.
The context of [[Philippians 2:9]] is crucial. It follows the description of Christ's profound humility and obedience: emptying Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men, and humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross ([[Philippians 2:6-8]]). The "therefore" (διὸ) in [[Philippians 2:9]] establishes a direct causal link between Christ's voluntary humiliation and God the Father's subsequent, divine act of exaltation.
Here, God the Father is the active agent who "highly exalted" (ὑπερυψόω) Jesus. This exaltation is not a self-achieved status but a divine vindication and glorification of the Son's obedient suffering. The result of this unparalleled exaltation is the bestowal of "the name which is above every name" ([[Philippians 2:9]]), culminating in the universal confession that "Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" ([[Philippians 2:11]]). The use of `{{G5251}}` here highlights the absolute supremacy of Christ's post-resurrection and ascension status, setting Him apart from and above all creation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several terms and theological concepts are closely related to `{{G5251}}` (hyperypsóō), enriching its meaning:
* **`{{G5250}}` (hypsóō):** The base verb "to lift up" or "to exalt." While `{{G5250}}` is used more broadly (e.g., in reference to the lifting up of the Son of Man in John's Gospel or the self-exaltation of the proud), `{{G5251}}` specifically denotes an *ultimate* exaltation, distinguishing Christ's unique position.
* **`{{G1392}}` (doxazō):** "To glorify." Exaltation often goes hand-in-hand with glorification, as seen in the glorification of Christ after His resurrection and ascension.
* **`{{G2962}}` (kyrios):** "Lord." The ultimate outcome of Christ's `{{G5251}}` exaltation is His recognition as "Lord" by "every tongue" ([[Philippians 2:11]]), a title carrying significant Old Testament connotations of divine sovereignty (referencing the Septuagint's use of `{{G2962}}` for YHWH).
* **`{{G3686}}` (onoma):** "Name." The "name which is above every name" ([[Philippians 2:9]]) is not merely a label but represents the very essence, authority, and character of the one who bears it. This name points to Christ's divine identity and supremacy.
* **Humiliation-Exaltation Motif:** This is a pervasive biblical theme, particularly prominent in Christology. Christ's self-emptying (κένωσις) and humiliation are directly contrasted with and lead to His divine exaltation. This pattern is foundational to understanding the saving work of Christ.
### Theological Significance
The single use of `{{G5251}}` (hyperypsóō) in [[Philippians 2:9]] carries profound theological weight, primarily in Christology and the doctrine of God:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Initiative:** The verb is in the active voice, with God as the subject. This emphasizes that Christ's ultimate exaltation is not an earned reward in a human sense, but a sovereign act of God the Father. It is God's divine will and power that elevates Christ to this supreme position, demonstrating the Father's vindication of the Son's perfect obedience.
2. **Christ's Unique Deity and Supremacy:** The "highly exalted" status of Christ, culminating in the bestowal of "the name above every name," unequivocally affirms His preeminence over all creation. This is a powerful declaration of His divine nature and supreme authority, establishing Him as the ultimate object of worship and allegiance.
3. **Culmination of Redemptive History:** Christ's exaltation marks the glorious climax of His redemptive work. His obedience unto death on the cross, which at first appeared to be a defeat, is revealed through this exaltation as the ultimate victory over sin, death, and evil. It signifies His triumph and the successful completion of God's plan of salvation.
4. **Foundation for Universal Lordship:** The exaltation of Christ by God the Father provides the basis for Christ's universal Lordship, to which every knee will bow and every tongue confess ([[Philippians 2:10-11]]). This eschatological vision underscores the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom and the recognition of Christ's reign by all creation.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G5251}}` (hyperypsóō) precisely conveys the concept of "highly exalting" or "elevating to the highest position." Though appearing only once in the New Testament, its singular use in [[Philippians 2:9]] is exceptionally significant. It describes God the Father's unparalleled act of raising Jesus Christ to a supreme, preeminent status following His profound humility and obedience unto death. This divine exaltation establishes Christ's unique Lordship and deity, providing the theological foundation for His universal reign and the ultimate confession of His name above all names. The word powerfully encapsulates the dramatic shift from Christ's self-emptying to His ultimate glorification, a cornerstone of Christian theology.
TRV