from a compound of ὑπό and a derivative of ὀπτάνομαι; to hit under the eye (buffet or disable an antagonist as a pugilist), i.e. (figuratively) to tease or annoy (into compliance), subdue (one's passions):--keep under, weary.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypōpiázō**, represented by `{{G5299}}`, carries the literal meaning of hitting under the eye to disable an opponent. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, and is used figuratively to convey the ideas of subduing one's passions or being wearied by persistent annoyance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G5299}}` illustrate its distinct figurative applications. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul describes his rigorous self-discipline, stating he must **keep under** his body `{{G4983}}` and bring it into subjection `{{G1396}}` to avoid becoming a castaway `{{G96}}` [[1 Corinthians 9:27]]. In contrast, the Gospel of Luke uses the term in the parable of the unjust judge, who resolves to help a widow `{{G5503}}` lest her persistent coming **weary** him into compliance [[Luke 18:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the two applications of `{{G5299}}`:
* `{{G1396}}` **doulagōgéō** (bring into subjection): This word appears directly with `{{G5299}}` and means to enslave or subdue, emphasizing the totality of control Paul exerts over his **body** [[1 Corinthians 9:27]].
* `{{G96}}` **adókimos** (castaway, rejected, reprobate): This term describes the consequence Paul fears—being rejected or unapproved—if he fails to **keep under** his body [[1 Corinthians 9:27]].
* `{{G5503}}` **chḗra** (widow): This term identifies the agent of the "wearying" in Luke's parable. The persistence of the **widow** is what compels the judge to act [[Luke 18:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5299}}` is demonstrated in its applications:
* **Spiritual Discipline:** The use of `{{G5299}}` in [[1 Corinthians 9:27]] highlights the theme of mortifying the flesh. It underscores the idea that spiritual effectiveness and avoiding being a **castaway** `{{G96}}` require a disciplined, forceful subjugation of bodily passions.
* **Persistent Prayer:** In [[Luke 18:5]], the word illustrates the effectiveness of persistence. The judge's response to being "wearied" by the **widow** `{{G5503}}` serves as a parable to encourage believers in their prayer life.
* **Figurative Force:** The original meaning of a knockout blow from a pugilist gives powerful figurative weight to both contexts. It implies a decisive, disabling action, whether applied to one's own body or experienced as an overwhelming annoyance from an outside source.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5299}}` is a potent word that, despite its infrequent use, carries significant weight. From its literal sense of a boxer's blow, it is used figuratively to articulate two different spiritual realities: the apostle's determined effort to **keep under** his own body for the sake of the gospel [[1 Corinthians 9:27]], and the wearing effect of a persistent supplicant on an unwilling authority [[Luke 18:5]]. It powerfully illustrates both the internal discipline required of a believer and the external impact of relentless petition.
TRV