### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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