### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypostréphō**, represented by `{{G5290}}`, means **to return**. It is formed from the words ὑπό and στρέφω, literally meaning to turn under or behind. Appearing **36 times** across **35 unique verses**, it typically describes the physical act of returning to a place, but can also carry figurative weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5290}}` is frequently used to chronicle the movements of Jesus, his disciples, and others. After his temptation, Jesus **returned** in the power of the Spirit into Galilee [[Luke 4:14]]. The apostles, after being sent out, **returned** and told Jesus all they had done [[Luke 9:10]]. The word also highlights a response to divine action, as seen when one of the ten healed lepers, a Samaritan, **turned back** to glorify God [[Luke 17:15]]. In a parable, an unclean spirit states its intention to **return** to its former house [[Luke 11:24]], giving the word a sense of reversion.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of movement and departure surrounding the act of returning:
* `{{G565}}` **apérchomai** (to go off, depart): Often used in contrast to returning. After being told to **return** home, the healed man **went his way** to publish what Jesus had done [[Luke 8:39]].
* `{{G5298}}` **hypochōréō** (to withdraw self): Describes a quiet retreat. After the apostles **returned**, Jesus took them and **went aside** privately into a desert place [[Luke 9:10]].
* `{{G4198}}` **poreúomai** (to travel, depart, go one's way): This word often sets up the action of returning. A nobleman **went** into a far country with the purpose **to return** [[Luke 19:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5290}}` is seen in how a physical return often reflects a spiritual reality.
* **Mission and Report:** The act of the seventy disciples who **returned again** with joy illustrates the biblical pattern of being sent out on a mission and coming back to report to the source of authority, Jesus Christ [[Luke 10:17]].
* **Response to God's Work:** The Samaritan who **returned** to give glory to God is highlighted as a model of proper gratitude and worship, in contrast to the others who did not [[Luke 17:18]]. Similarly, the crowd that witnessed the crucifixion **returned** smiting their breasts, a physical act signifying remorse [[Luke 23:48]].
* **A Change of State:** The word is used to describe a permanent spiritual change. Christ, having been raised from the dead, is said "no more to **return** to corruption," signifying a final victory over death [[Acts 13:34]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5290}}` is a versatile word that signifies more than simple geography. While it frequently tracks the literal journeys of people returning to cities like Jerusalem [[Acts 1:12]] or their homes [[Luke 8:39]], it also serves a deeper purpose. It captures the essence of reporting back after a divine commission, the proper response of worship after a miracle, and the finality of moving from a state of corruption to one of eternal life.
TRV