from ὑπό and λαμβάνω; to take from below, i.e. carry upward; figuratively, to take up, i.e. continue a discourse or topic; mentally, to assume (presume):--answer, receive, suppose.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypolambánō**, represented by `{{G5274}}`, comes from the words ὑπό and λαμβάνω. It literally means to take from below or carry upward, but is also used figuratively to mean continuing a discourse or mentally assuming something. It appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, where its translation varies between "receive," "suppose," and "answer."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{G5274}}` demonstrate its versatility. In the account of the ascension, a **cloud** `{{G3507}}` **received** `{{G5274}}` Jesus out of the disciples' sight, a literal upward action [[Acts 1:9]]. In a figurative sense, it is used for mental assumption. In Acts, Peter refutes the crowd's accusation by saying the disciples are not **drunken** `{{G3184}}` as they **suppose** `{{G5274}}` [[Acts 2:15]]. Simon the Pharisee also uses the word to **suppose** `{{G5274}}` which debtor would love his creditor more, a conclusion Jesus affirms as rightly judged [[Luke 7:43]]. Finally, it can mean to take up a topic, as when **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` **answering** `{{G5274}}` a question, began the parable of the man who fell among thieves [[Luke 10:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{G5274}}`:
* `{{G1869}}` **epaírō** (to raise up): This word is used to describe Jesus being **taken up** just before the cloud **received** `{{G5274}}` him, highlighting the physical, upward movement of the ascension [[Acts 1:9]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide): After Simon makes his **supposition** `{{G5274}}`, Jesus tells him he has **judged** `{{G2919}}` correctly, showing that a mental assumption can lead to a right decision [[Luke 7:43]].
* `{{G3027}}` **lēistḗs** (a brigand): This word identifies the **thieves** who wounded the traveler, setting the scene for the parable that Jesus "takes up" or **answers** `{{G5274}}` with [[Luke 10:30]].
* `{{G3184}}` **methýō** (to drink to intoxication, i.e. get drunk): This is the specific, incorrect assumption that the crowd makes, which Peter addresses when he says, "as ye **suppose** `{{G5274}}`" [[Acts 2:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5274}}` lies in the contrast between divine action and human perception.
* **Divine Reality:** The word describes the final, visible act of Christ's earthly ministry as a cloud **received** `{{G5274}}` Him into heaven. This is presented as an observed, factual event [[Acts 1:9]].
* **Human Assumption:** In contrast, the word is twice used for human supposition, which can be incorrect. Peter must correct the crowd's wrong **supposition** `{{G5274}}` that the disciples are drunk [[Acts 2:15]].
* **Affirmed Understanding:** The word also shows that human assumption is not always wrong. When Simon **supposes** `{{G5274}}` correctly about forgiveness and love, Jesus affirms his judgment, bridging the gap between human reasoning and divine truth [[Luke 7:43]].
* **Initiating Teaching:** When Jesus is **answering** `{{G5274}}`, He is not just giving a simple reply but is taking up the discourse to provide a profound spiritual lesson in the form of a parable [[Luke 10:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5274}}` is a multifaceted term that moves between the literal and the figurative. It describes the physical reception of Christ into heaven, the mental act of making a supposition, and the verbal act of continuing a discourse. Its usage underscores the difference between divine certainty and human assumption, while also showing how God can affirm right understanding and use questions as an opportunity for deeper teaching.