The Greek word hypódikos, represented by G5267, means to be under sentence or, by implication, condemned and guilty. It is formed from the words hypó (under) and díkē (sentence). This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific and weighty legal application.
The sole use of G5267 is found in Romans 3:19, a pivotal verse in establishing the universal condition of humanity. The passage states that the purpose of the law G3551 is to ensure that "every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God." Here, hypódikos is not describing a feeling, but a legal status of being accountable and liable for judgment. The law's function is to silence all claims of self-righteousness and bring the entire world G2889 into this state of condemnation before God G2316.
Several related words in its context clarify the meaning of G5267:
- G5420 phrássō (to stop): Defined as "to fence or inclose... (figuratively, to silence)," this word is directly linked to the outcome of becoming guilty. The law's pronouncements are meant to stop every mouth, leaving no room for defense Romans 3:19.
- G3551 nómos (law): This is the instrument that reveals the state of guilt. It is defined as a "regulation" or "principle," particularly the law of Moses. In this context, it speaks to those under its authority to demonstrate their accountability Romans 3:19.
- G1096 gínomai (to become): This verb, meaning "to come into being," indicates that being guilty is a state that the world enters into as a result of the law's work. The verse says the world "may become guilty," signifying a revealed condition Romans 3:19.
- G2889 kósmos (world): This term, meaning "the world (in a wide or narrow sense, including its inhabitants)," defines the universal scope of the condemnation. The use of "all the world" Romans 3:19 shows that no one is exempt from being guilty before God.
The theological weight of G5267 is significant, establishing a key doctrinal point.
- Universal Accountability: The term's use in Romans 3:19 confirms that all of humanity, "all the world" G2889, is under divine sentence. It removes any basis for boasting or claiming innocence before God.
- The Function of the Law: It shows that the purpose of the law G3551 is not to provide a path to righteousness through works, but to reveal the true condition of humanity as guilty and accountable to God.
- A Legal Verdict: Hypódikos is a legal term. It signifies that humanity stands condemned, or "under sentence," before the ultimate authority of God G2316, awaiting the execution of that sentence.
In summary, G5267 is a precise and powerful term that, despite its single appearance, is foundational to the biblical argument for humanity's universal need for redemption. It defines the legal state of every person outside of God's grace: silent before the evidence of the law, part of a world under sentence, and ultimately guilty before God.
TRV