### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word `{{G5275}}` (hypoleípō) is a compound verb formed from the preposition ὑπο (hypo), meaning "under" or "behind," and the verb λείπω (leípō), meaning "to leave" or "to be wanting." Etymologically, it conveys the sense of "to leave behind" or "to leave remaining." While it can theoretically carry an active sense, its primary and most significant usage in biblical contexts, particularly in the Septuagint (LXX) and the New Testament, is in the passive voice: "to be left behind," "to remain," or "to survive." This passive sense is crucial, as it invariably points to a portion, often small, that has been preserved or spared from a larger group, typically in the face of judgment, destruction, or widespread apostasy. Thus, its semantic range is tightly linked to the concept of a "remnant."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, `{{G5275}}` (hypoleípō) appears only once, yet its singular occurrence is profoundly significant, anchoring a foundational theological concept. This sole instance is found in [[Romans 11:4]]: "But what is the divine response to him? 'I have reserved (or 'left') for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.'" This verse is a direct quotation from [[1 Kings 19:18]] in the Septuagint, where the same Greek verb is used.
The context in [[Romans 11]] is Paul's profound discussion on God's continuing faithfulness to Israel, despite their widespread rejection of Christ. Paul counters the idea that God has cast away His people by citing the example of Elijah, who felt he was the only faithful one left. God's response to Elijah reveals that even in times of severe apostasy, God always preserves a faithful "remnant." The use of `{{G5275}}` here underscores that this preservation is not accidental or by human merit, but by divine design and election ("according to the election of grace," [[Romans 11:5]]). The passive voice ("have been left/reserved") emphasizes God's active role as the one who preserves and sets apart this remnant.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept conveyed by `{{G5275}}` is deeply intertwined with several other biblical terms and theological ideas:
* **λείπω (leípō, `{{G3007}}`):** The root verb, meaning "to leave," "to lack," or "to be wanting." `{{G5275}}` builds upon this by adding the nuance of being "left *behind*."
* **καταλείπω (kataleípō, `{{G2641}}`):** Another compound verb, meaning "to leave behind," "to forsake," or "to abandon." While similar, `{{G5275}}` more strongly emphasizes the idea of a preserved remnant.
* **Hebrew Terms for Remnant:** The concept of the "remnant" is pervasive throughout the Old Testament, often translated by `{{H7611}}` (she'ar) or `{{H7604}}` (she'erit). Prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Micah frequently speak of a "remnant" that will survive judgment and be restored. The use of `{{G5275}}` in the LXX to translate these Hebrew terms shows a strong semantic continuity between the Old and New Testaments regarding God's preservation of a faithful few.
* **Divine Election and Grace:** The very existence of a remnant, as highlighted by `{{G5275}}` in [[Romans 11:4]], is presented as a work of God's sovereign choice and unmerited favor, not human achievement.
### Theological Significance
The singular New Testament occurrence of `{{G5275}}` in [[Romans 11:4]] carries immense theological weight, primarily in relation to the doctrine of the "remnant."
1. **God's Unfailing Faithfulness:** The word testifies to God's steadfast loyalty to His covenant promises, even when the majority of His people are unfaithful. He always preserves a portion for Himself.
2. **Sovereign Election:** The remnant is not a result of human effort or merit, but a direct outcome of God's gracious and sovereign choice. Paul explicitly states that the remnant is "according to the election of grace" ([[Romans 11:5]]). This underscores that salvation is fundamentally a work of divine initiative.
3. **Hope Amidst Apostasy:** The concept of a preserved remnant offers a profound message of hope. Even in times of widespread spiritual decline or judgment, God is at work, maintaining a faithful group through whom His purposes will continue.
4. **Continuity of Salvation History:** The use of `{{G5275}}` in quoting the Old Testament demonstrates the continuity of God's redemptive plan across the ages. The principle of a divinely preserved remnant, evident in Elijah's day, continues into the New Covenant era.
### Summary
`{{G5275}}` (hypoleípō) is a Greek verb meaning "to be left behind," "to remain," or "to survive." While appearing only once in the New Testament, in [[Romans 11:4]], its significance is profound. It directly quotes [[1 Kings 19:18]] from the Septuagint, highlighting God's declaration that He has "reserved" or "left" for Himself 7,000 who did not bow to Baal. This single usage powerfully underscores the biblical doctrine of the "remnant," emphasizing God's unfailing faithfulness, His sovereign election by grace, and His ability to preserve a faithful few even amidst widespread apostasy. The word thus serves as a powerful testament to God's enduring commitment to His covenant people and His ongoing work of salvation.
TRV