ὑπομένω

hypoménō /hoop-om-en'-o/ Ask about this word
Rootfrom ὑπό and μένω
Meaningto stay under (behind), i.e. remain; figuratively, to undergo, i.e. bear (trials), have fortitude, persevere
KJV usageabide, endure, (take) patient(-ly), suffer, tarry behind.
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Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word ὑπομένω (hypoménō), represented by G5278, means to stay under, remain, or persevere. It appears 18 times across 16 unique verses. It conveys the concept of having fortitude and bearing trials, not merely waiting, but actively enduring under pressure.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In scripture, G5278 is used to describe a steadfast perseverance through hardship. The ultimate example is Jesus, who endured the cross, despising the shame, for the joy that was set before Him Hebrews 12:2. The word is also critically linked to salvation, with the promise that he who endureth to the end shall be saved Matthew 10:22. While it primarily has this figurative meaning of enduring trials, it is also used literally to mean "to tarry behind" or "abide," as when the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem Luke 2:43.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the nature of what is being endured:

  • G5281 hypomonḗ (patience): This noun form describes cheerful or hopeful endurance and constancy. It is exemplified in the patience of Job, who serves as a model for those who endure James 5:11.
  • G3986 peirasmós (temptation): This refers to a putting to proof or adversity. A blessing is promised to the man that endureth temptation, for he will receive the crown of life James 1:12.
  • G2347 thlîpsis (tribulation): This term signifies pressure or affliction. Believers are called to be patient in tribulation, a key component of a life marked by hope and prayer Romans 12:12.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G5278 is significant, highlighting a core aspect of the Christian walk.

  • The Example of Christ: The primary model for endurance is Jesus himself, who endured the cross and the contradiction of sinners (Hebrews 12:2, Hebrews 12:3). Believers are called to consider His example to avoid growing weary.
  • Perseverance and Salvation: Enduring to the end is presented as integral to receiving salvation. This is stated directly in passages that describe facing hatred and persecution for Christ's name Matthew 24:13.
  • A Mark of Sonship: Enduring chastening is portrayed as evidence of a true relationship with God as a father to His sons Hebrews 12:7. Furthermore, to suffer patiently when doing well is described as acceptable with God 1 Peter 2:20.

Summary

In summary, G5278 is not a term of passive waiting but of active, resilient perseverance. It defines the character of a believer who remains steadfast under trial, persecution, and divine chastening. From the ultimate act of Christ on the cross to the daily walk of the faithful, ὑπομένω (hypoménō) illustrates the necessity of enduring with hope and fortitude as a foundational element of faith, love, and salvation.

Grammatical Forms

In the Greek New Testament, this word appears as a verb across 17 occurrences, inflected in 12 grammatical forms.

  • Aorist Active Participle Nominative Singular Masculine 3×
  • Aorist Active Indicative 3rd Singular 2×
  • Future Active Indicative 2nd Plural 2×
  • Present Active Indicative 3rd Singular 2×
  • Aorist Active Indicative 2nd Plural 1×
  • Aorist Active Indicative 3rd Plural 1×
  • Aorist Active Participle Accusative Plural Masculine 1×
  • Perfect Active Participle Accusative Singular Masculine 1×
  • Present Active Indicative 1st Plural 1×
  • Present Active Indicative 1st Singular 1×
  • Present Active Indicative 2nd Plural 1×
  • Present Active Participle Nominative Plural Masculine 1×
Nominative
The subject of the verb.
Accusative
The direct object of the verb.
Singular
One.
Plural
More than one.
Masculine
Masculine grammatical gender.
1st
First person — the speaker ("I"/"we").
2nd
Second person — the one addressed ("you").
3rd
Third person — the one spoken about ("he"/"they").
Present
Action in progress or repeated — happening now or continually.
Future
Action yet to take place.
Aorist
Action viewed as a single whole — usually a simple past event.
Perfect
A completed act whose results continue.
Active
The subject performs the action.
Indicative
A plain statement of fact.
Participle
A verbal adjective — describes while carrying the verb's action.

Theographic Context

Biblical Distribution

Appears in 16 verses across 10 books. Most frequent in Hebrews (4 verses).

2
Matthew
1
Mark
1
Luke
1
Acts
1
Romans
1
1 Corinthians
2
2 Timothy
4
Hebrews
2
James
1
1 Peter

Verse Explorer

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