### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypērétēs**, represented by `{{G5257}}`, is derived from a term for an "under-oarsman" and is used generally to mean a subordinate, assistant, officer, or servant. It appears **20 times** across **20 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries the core idea of a person acting under the direction and authority of another, whether in a civil, religious, or general service capacity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5257}}` is used to describe a variety of subordinate roles. In a legal context, it refers to an **officer** who carries out the sentence of a judge by casting a person into prison [[Matthew 5:25]]. It is frequently used for temple or court **officers** acting on behalf of religious authorities, such as those sent by the chief priests and Pharisees to arrest Jesus ([[John 7:32]], [[John 18:3]]). The word also identifies religious assistants, like the synagogue **minister** who handed Jesus the book [[Luke 4:20]], and apostles who are described as **ministers** of Christ [[1 Corinthians 4:1]]. In the narrative of Jesus's trial, the term is translated as **servants** who strike him with the palms of their hands [[Mark 14:65]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and status of a `{{G5257}}`:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave... bond(-man), servant.): This term for a servant or slave is used alongside `{{G5257}}` to describe different groups present during the events of Jesus's passion. In [[John 18:18]], the **servants** `{{G1401}}` and **officers** `{{G5257}}` stood together warming themselves, highlighting a potential distinction between general servants and those with an official capacity.
* `{{G3623}}` **oikonómos** (a house-distributor (i.e. manager), or overseer... steward.): This word denotes a manager or steward with significant responsibility. It appears with `{{G5257}}` in [[1 Corinthians 4:1]], where apostles are described as **ministers** of Christ and **stewards** of the mysteries of God, framing ministerial service as a role of trusted administration.
* `{{G2923}}` **kritḗs** (a judge): As a key figure in the legal system, a **judge** is the authority who gives orders to an officer. In [[Matthew 5:25]], the **judge** `{{G2923}}` delivers a person to the **officer** `{{G5257}}`, establishing a clear hierarchical relationship in a civil context.
* `{{G4755}}` **stratēgós** (a general... captain, magistrate.): This term refers to a high-ranking official, such as a temple captain. The **captain** `{{G4755}}` went with the **officers** `{{G5257}}` to bring the apostles before the council, illustrating a direct chain of command [[Acts 5:26]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{G5257}}` carries significant weight in understanding roles of service and authority.
* **Subordinate Service to Divine Authority:** The term is used honorifically for those serving God and Christ. The first disciples are described as eyewitnesses and **ministers** `{{G5257}}` of the word [[Luke 1:2]], and Paul is specifically appointed by Christ to be a **minister** `{{G5257}}` and a witness [[Acts 26:16]]. This frames ministry not as independent leadership but as faithful service under a higher power.
* **Agency of Human Authority:** `{{G5257}}` often describes individuals who are instruments of human power structures. The temple **officers** are sent by the chief priests and Pharisees to enforce their will, attempting to arrest Jesus ([[John 7:32]], [[John 7:45]]). Their actions and authority are derived entirely from those who sent them.
* **Role in Opposition to Christ:** The word is used for those who took part in Jesus's suffering. The **servants** `{{G5257}}` of the high priest participated in striking Jesus [[Mark 14:65]]. In [[John 18:36]], Jesus states that if His kingdom were of this world, His **servants** `{{G5257}}` would fight to prevent His arrest, contrasting their potential role with the actions of the earthly officers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5257}}` **hypērétēs** is a multifaceted term whose core meaning is rooted in the idea of an "under-oarsman." It encompasses a range of roles, from a legal **officer** [[Matthew 5:25]] to a minister of the gospel [[1 Corinthians 4:1]] and an attendant at a synagogue [[Luke 4:20]]. Whether used for officials carrying out arrests, apostles stewarding God's mysteries, or servants acting with hostility, the word consistently emphasizes a position of service and action under a higher authority, with its specific function defined by that authority.
TRV