### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hyperōion**, represented by `{{G5253}}`, refers to an **upper chamber** or **room**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, denoting a higher part of a house, such as an apartment in the third story. It consistently designates an elevated, private space.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5253}}` is used to mark the location of significant events in the early church. After the ascension, the apostles **went up** into an **upper room** where they abode [[Acts 1:13]]. The term is also central to the account of Dorcas, whose body was laid in an **upper chamber** after she died [[Acts 9:37]]. Peter was subsequently brought into this same **upper chamber**, where widows showed him the garments Dorcas had made [[Acts 9:39]]. Finally, it describes a place of assembly, where many lights **were** in the **upper chamber** where believers **were gathered together** [[Acts 20:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and use of the **upper chamber**:
* `{{G305}}` **anabaínō** (to go up): This verb describes the action of ascending, as when the disciples **went up** into the upper room, highlighting its elevated position [[Acts 1:13]].
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter): This signifies the act of coming into a space. The disciples **were come in** before going up to the upper room, establishing their arrival and subsequent move to the secluded space [[Acts 1:13]].
* `{{G4863}}` **synágō** (to lead together): This word denotes the act of assembling or convening. It is used to describe the believers who **were gathered together** in the upper chamber, showing its function as a place of community [[Acts 20:8]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G5253}}` is found in its consistent use as a setting for pivotal moments.
* **A Space for Apostolic Unity:** The **upper room** is where the eleven apostles **abode** together after leaving the Mount of Olives, establishing it as a place of retreat and common purpose [[Acts 1:13]].
* **A Setting for Life and Death:** The **upper chamber** is a scene of both mourning and ministry. It is where Dorcas is laid after death [[Acts 9:37]] and where Peter is confronted with the community's grief, which precedes a miracle [[Acts 9:39]].
* **A Center for Fellowship:** The term identifies a place of active community worship and fellowship, described as an **upper chamber** with "many lights" where believers **were gathered together** [[Acts 20:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5253}}` is more than an architectural detail. It consistently represents a space set apart, a higher room where the life of the early church unfolds. The **upper chamber** serves as a place for apostolic gathering, a backdrop for death and miraculous works, and a center for communal fellowship. It is an intentional, elevated setting for the work and community of the first believers.
TRV