from a compound of ὑπό and ἵστημι; a setting under (support), i.e. (figuratively) concretely, essence, or abstractly, assurance (objectively or subjectively):--confidence, confident, person, substance.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypóstasis**, represented by `{{G5287}}`, is defined as a setting under or support. Figuratively, it can refer to a concrete essence or an abstract assurance. This term appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, carrying the meanings of **confidence**, **person**, or **substance**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5287}}` takes on different nuances depending on the context. In Hebrews, it is used to define faith as the **substance** of things hoped for [[Hebrews 11:1]]. It is also used in a profound theological sense to describe Christ as the express image of God's **person** [[Hebrews 1:3]]. In other passages, it conveys the idea of a firm assurance, where believers are instructed to hold the beginning of their **confidence** stedfast to the end [[Hebrews 3:14]]. In 2 Corinthians, the term is translated as **confidence** or **confident** in the context of boasting ([[2 Corinthians 11:17]], [[2 Corinthians 9:4]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5287}}` in scripture:
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (persuasion, i.e. credence... faith, fidelity): In [[Hebrews 11:1]], `{{G5287}}` is the very **substance** that undergirds this faith.
* `{{G5481}}` **charaktḗr** (an exact copy or (figuratively) representation): This is used alongside `{{G5287}}` in [[Hebrews 1:3]], where Christ is described as the "express image" of His "person."
* `{{G949}}` **bébaios** (stable (literally or figuratively):--firm, of force, stedfast, sure.): This describes how the "confidence" of `{{G5287}}` must be held in [[Hebrews 3:14]].
* `{{G2746}}` **kaúchēsis** (boasting... in a good or a bad sense): In 2 Corinthians, `{{G5287}}` is the specific "confidence" connected to this act of "boasting" [[2 Corinthians 11:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5287}}` is significant, particularly in Christology and soteriology.
* **Foundation of Faith:** It establishes that Christian faith is not groundless but is the very **substance** and assurance of an unseen reality [[Hebrews 11:1]].
* **Divine Essence:** The word is critical to understanding the nature of Christ, defining Him as the perfect representation of God's very being or **person** [[Hebrews 1:3]].
* **Enduring Assurance:** It represents a foundational **confidence** that is the starting point of the Christian life, which must be held firmly to the end to remain a partaker of Christ [[Hebrews 3:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5287}}` is a multifaceted term that bridges the gap between abstract belief and concrete reality. Whether translated as the "substance" of faith, the "person" of God, or the "confidence" of the believer, it consistently points to a firm, underlying support. It is a cornerstone concept for understanding the objective reality of God's nature and the subjective assurance that believers are called to maintain.
TRV