### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypolḗnion**, represented by `{{G5276}}`, is defined as a **winefat**, specifically a "vessel or receptacle under the press, i.e. lower wine-vat." This term is highly specific and exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 times** across **1 unique verses**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G5276}}` occurs within a **parable** `{{G3850}}` that Jesus **began** `{{G756}}` to **speak** `{{G3004}}`. He describes a **man** `{{G444}}` who **planted** `{{G5452}}` a **vineyard** `{{G290}}` and fully equipped it for production. Among the preparations, the man **set** `{{G4060}}` a **hedge about** `{{G5418}}` it, **digged** `{{G3736}}` a place for the **winefat**, and **built** `{{G3618}}` a **tower** `{{G4444}}` before he **let** `{{G1554}}` it **out** `{{G1554}}` to **husbandmen** `{{G1092}}` [[Mark 12:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the agricultural and narrative context of **hypolḗnion**:
* `{{G290}}` **ampelṓn** (vineyard): This is the primary setting where the **winefat** is located. The parable frames the **vineyard** as a fully prepared enterprise, ready for fruitful work [[Mark 12:1]].
* `{{G3736}}` **orýssō** (dig): This verb describes the specific action taken to create the receptacle for the **winefat**. It illustrates the physical labor involved in preparing the **vineyard** [[Mark 12:1]].
* `{{G1092}}` **geōrgós** (husbandman): These are the farmers, or tenants, to whom the owner entrusted the fully furnished **vineyard**, including the **winefat**. Their role was to manage the asset and produce a harvest [[Mark 12:9]].
* `{{G4444}}` **pýrgos** (tower): Like the **winefat**, this is another structure the owner **built** `{{G3618}}` to make the **vineyard** complete, providing security and oversight [[Mark 12:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5276}}` is derived entirely from its role in this one parable.
* **Symbol of Complete Provision:** The act of digging a **winefat** demonstrates the owner’s thoroughness. He did not merely plant a **vineyard** but provided all the necessary equipment for the entire process of cultivation and production, signifying God's complete provision for His people.
* **Expectation of Fruitfulness:** A **winefat** is constructed for the purpose of producing wine. Its inclusion signals the owner's clear and definite expectation that the **husbandmen** would produce fruit from the **vineyard** he entrusted to them.
* **Foundation for Accountability:** By providing the **winefat** and other structures, the owner leaves the tenants with no excuse for failure. The story uses this complete provision as the basis for the judgment that later comes upon the wicked **husbandmen** [[Mark 12:9]].
### Summary
In summary, **hypolḗnion** `{{G5276}}` is a term whose importance comes from its singular, vivid context. While a simple noun for a piece of agricultural equipment, its placement within the **parable** of the wicked **husbandmen** transforms it into a powerful symbol. It represents the owner’s total provision and establishes his righteous expectation of fruitfulness, making it a key detail in a story about stewardship, rebellion, and judgment.
TRV