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 `{{G5287}}` (hypóstasis) is a compound derived from `{{G5259}}` (hypó, "under") and `{{G2476}}` (hístēmi, "to stand"). Its fundamental meaning is "a standing under," which can denote a foundation, support, or underlying reality. From this literal sense, its semantic range expands significantly:
1. **Concrete Reality/Substance:** It can refer to the actual, underlying essence or substance of something, that which gives it real existence. This is akin to "substance" or "reality" in a philosophical sense.
2. **Firm Ground/Foundation:** By extension, it signifies a solid basis, a firm standing, or a sure footing.
3. **Assurance/Confidence:** In a more abstract and subjective sense, it denotes a firm conviction, an unwavering assurance, or the confidence that comes from a solid foundation. This confidence is not mere hope but a settled expectation based on something real and dependable.
4. **Person (Later Theological Usage):** While not explicitly used in this technical sense in the New Testament itself, `{{G5287}}` later became a crucial term in Trinitarian theology to denote the distinct "persons" (hypostases) within the one divine essence (ousia). This development built upon the concept of underlying reality and distinct existence.
The various English translations reflect this range: "confidence," "confident," "person," "substance."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G5287}}` appears five times in the New Testament, primarily in the Pauline epistles and Hebrews, each instance illuminating its nuanced meaning:
* **[[2 Corinthians 9:4]]**: "lest when some Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we be shamed—to say nothing of you—for being so confident (hypóstasis) in this matter." Here, `{{G5287}}` refers to the "confidence" or "boasting" Paul had concerning the Corinthians' readiness to contribute to the collection for the Jerusalem saints. It speaks of the firm expectation or assurance he had.
* **[[2 Corinthians 11:17]]**: "What I am saying with this boastful confidence (hypóstasis), I am saying not as the Lord would, but as a fool." Similar to the previous usage, Paul uses `{{G5287}}` to describe his "boasting" or "confidence" in his self-defense against false apostles. It signifies the firm ground or basis of his assertion, even if presented ironically as foolishness.
* **[[Hebrews 1:3]]**: "[Christ] is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature (hypóstasis), upholding the universe by his word of power." This is perhaps the most profound theological usage. Here, `{{G5287}}` refers to God's "nature," "essence," or "substance." Christ is presented as the perfect representation and embodiment of God's very being, sharing the same divine reality. This passage is foundational for understanding Christ's co-essentiality with the Father.
* **[[Hebrews 3:14]]**: "For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence (hypóstasis) firm to the end." In this context, `{{G5287}}` denotes the "confidence" or "assurance" of faith that believers initially embraced. It is the firm stand or conviction that must be maintained steadfastly.
* **[[Hebrews 11:1]]**: "Now faith is the assurance (hypóstasis) of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." This iconic verse defines faith as the "assurance" or "substance" of what is hoped for. `{{G5287}}` here conveys the idea that faith gives a present reality or a firm grounding to future, unseen realities. It is not mere wishful thinking, but a substantial, concrete basis for hope, making the unseen tangible to the believer. Some interpretations see it as the "title deed" or "guarantee" of future blessings.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{G5287}}` includes several related terms and concepts that enrich its understanding:
* **Etymological Roots:** Its components, `{{G5259}}` (hypó, "under") and `{{G2476}}` (hístēmi, "to stand"), clearly point to its core meaning of "standing under" or "support."
* **Concepts of Reality and Essence:**
* `{{G3772}}` (ousía): A philosophical term for "being" or "essence," often used in later Trinitarian discussions alongside `{{G5287}}` (e.g., one *ousia* in three *hypostases*). While not a direct synonym in the NT, the meaning of `{{G5287}}` in [[Hebrews 1:3]] approaches this concept.
* `{{G5016}}` (typos) and `{{G4639}}` (skia): In Hebrews, the contrast between the "shadow" (skia) of the old covenant and the "reality" (which `{{G5287}}` can imply) of Christ and the new covenant is significant.
* **Concepts of Firmness and Stability:**
* `{{G949}}` (bebaios): "firm," "steadfast," "sure."
* `{{G4739}}` (stereos): "firm," "solid," "stable."
* `{{G1744}}` (hedraios): "steadfast," "immovable." These words share the idea of a solid foundation or unwavering state, echoing the "standing under" aspect of `{{G5287}}`.
* **Concepts of Faith and Confidence:**
* `{{G4102}}` (pístis): "faith," "belief," "trust." In [[Hebrews 11:1]], faith *is* the `{{G5287}}` of things hoped for, indicating an intrinsic connection.
* `{{G1680}}` (elpis): "hope." Also linked in [[Hebrews 11:1]].
* `{{G4006}}` (pepoithēsis): "confidence," "trust." Often used interchangeably with `{{G5287}}` in contexts of assurance.
* `{{G1789}}` (enthumēsis): "thought," "reflection," but can also imply "firm purpose."
### Theological Significance
The theological import of `{{G5287}}` is profound, particularly in two key areas: Christology and the nature of faith.
1. **Christology (Hebrews 1:3):** The declaration that Christ is the "exact imprint of God's `{{G5287}}`" is a cornerstone of New Testament Christology. It asserts Christ's co-essentiality with the Father, meaning He possesses the very same divine nature and substance. He is not merely a reflection or a created being, but the perfect and complete manifestation of God's own being. This verse strongly supports the divinity of Christ and is foundational for later Trinitarian formulations, even though the term `{{G5287}}` itself does not yet carry the technical meaning of "person" in the New Testament.
2. **The Nature of Faith (Hebrews 11:1):** Defining faith as the "hypóstasis of things hoped for" elevates faith beyond mere belief or optimism. It portrays faith as giving *substance* or *reality* to that which is unseen and yet to come. Faith is the present assurance and firm ground upon which future realities are based. It is the "title deed" or "guarantee" of God's promises, making the unseen realm tangibly real to the believer. This understanding underscores the active, foundational, and transformative power of faith in the Christian life.
3. **Christian Confidence:** In 2 Corinthians and Hebrews 3, `{{G5287}}` underscores the basis for Christian confidence and steadfastness. This confidence is not self-generated but rooted in God's faithfulness and promises, providing a firm foundation for perseverance amidst trials.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G5287}}` (hypóstasis) is a multi-faceted term rooted in the concept of "a standing under" or "foundation." Its semantic range extends from a concrete "substance" or "underlying reality" to an abstract "assurance" or "firm conviction." In the New Testament, it is critically employed to articulate profound theological truths:
* In **Christology**, especially in [[Hebrews 1:3]], it affirms Christ's co-essentiality with God the Father, declaring Him to be the very "substance" or "nature" of God made manifest.
* In the **theology of faith**, particularly in [[Hebrews 11:1]], it defines faith as the "assurance" or "substance" of things hoped for, giving present reality and firm grounding to future and unseen spiritual realities.
* It also denotes the **firm confidence** and unwavering conviction that believers possess, rooted in divine promises and the steadfastness of God.
Thus, `{{G5287}}` consistently points to a foundational reality, whether it be the divine essence of God, the substantial nature of faith, or the firm basis of Christian assurance. It is a word that speaks to the very bedrock of Christian belief and experience.
TRV