from ὑπό and στέλλω; to withhold under (out of sight), i.e. (reflexively) to cower or shrink, (figuratively) to conceal (reserve):--draw (keep) back, shun, withdraw.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypostéllō**, represented by `{{G5288}}`, describes the act of withholding, shrinking, or concealing something. It appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on its components, it literally means to withhold something under or out of sight, which is used figuratively to describe cowering, drawing back, or shunning a person or truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5288}}` is used in two contrasting ways. Negatively, it describes a failure of courage or conviction. In Galatians, Peter **withdrew** from eating with the Gentiles because he was fearing those of the circumcision [[Galatians 2:12]]. Similarly, Hebrews warns that if a person **draws back** from a life of faith, God’s soul will have no pleasure in him [[Hebrews 10:38]]. Positively, the Apostle Paul uses the term in a negative construction to describe his own ministry. He states that he **kept back** nothing that was profitable for the believers and did not **shun** declaring the entire counsel of God to them ([[Acts 20:20]], [[Acts 20:27]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5288}}`:
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to be alarmed; revere): This word explains the motivation behind the act of drawing back. In [[Galatians 2:12]], Peter **withdrew** specifically because he was **fearing** certain people, showing that fear of man can lead to compromise.
* `{{G873}}` **aphorízō** (to set off by boundary, separate): This term is used in direct conjunction with `{{G5288}}` to describe Peter's action. He not only **withdrew** internally but also **separated** himself physically from the Gentile believers [[Galatians 2:12]].
* `{{G312}}` **anangéllō** (to announce in detail): This action stands in direct opposition to `{{G5288}}`. Paul did not **shun** or hold back; instead, he made it his mission to **declare** and show the full counsel of God ([[Acts 20:27]], [[Acts 20:20]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5288}}` is significant, serving as both a warning and an example for believers.
* **The Danger of Shrinking Back:** To **draw back** is presented as the opposite of living by faith. It is an act that displeases God and signifies a failure to persevere in the life to which the just are called [[Hebrews 10:38]].
* **Fear of Man:** The story of Peter in Galatians provides a clear illustration of how the fear of others can cause a leader to **withdraw** from known truth and act hypocritically, compromising the fellowship of the church [[Galatians 2:12]].
* **Integrity in Ministry:** Paul’s refusal to **keep back** or **shun** any part of God’s counsel establishes a standard for spiritual leadership. It underscores the importance of courageously proclaiming the whole, profitable truth of God without reservation ([[Acts 20:20]], [[Acts 20:27]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5288}}` is a potent term that contrasts faithful perseverance with fearful retreat. It highlights the critical choice between **drawing back** out of fear and boldly proclaiming the truth without reservation. Whether describing Peter’s failure of courage or Paul’s model of integrity, the word challenges believers to live by faith and refuse to **shun** or conceal God’s complete and profitable counsel.
TRV