from ὕστερος; to be later, i.e. (by implication) to be inferior; generally, to fall short (be deficient):--come behind (short), be destitute, fail, lack, suffer need, (be in) want, be the worse.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hysteréō**, represented by `{{G5302}}`, conveys the idea of being inferior, falling short, or being deficient. It appears **17 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning ranges from a literal, material want, such as lacking food or money, to a profound spiritual state of falling short of a divine standard.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G5302}}` describes various forms of lack. In the story of the prodigal son, after spending all his money, he "began to **be in want**" [[Luke 15:14]]. At the wedding in Cana, the disciples informed Jesus, "when they **wanted** wine" [[John 2:3]]. The word also addresses spiritual conditions. Paul uses it to declare that "all have sinned, and **come short** of the glory of God" [[Romans 3:23]]. It is also used in a comparative sense, as when Paul states he was not "a whit **behind** the very chiefest apostles" [[2 Corinthians 11:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help clarify the concept of deficiency and need:
* `{{G5303}}` **hystérēma** (a deficit; specially, poverty): This noun form is directly derived from `{{G5302}}` and refers to the lack itself. In [[2 Corinthians 11:9]], Paul explains that when he **wanted** `{{G5302}}`, the "that which was **lacking**" `{{G5303}}` was supplied by others.
* `{{G3042}}` **limós** (a scarcity of food): This term for famine often provides the context for being in want. [[Luke 15:14]] connects the two directly, stating a mighty **famine** `{{G3042}}` arose, leading the son to **be in want** `{{G5302}}`.
* `{{G3983}}` **peináō** (to famish; figuratively, to crave): This word for being hungry is used in parallel with `{{G5302}}`. In [[Philippians 4:12]], Paul speaks of being instructed on how "to **be hungry**" `{{G3983}}` and how "to **suffer need**" `{{G5302}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5302}}` is significant, highlighting the contrast between human insufficiency and divine provision.
* **Universal Sinfulness:** The word's use in [[Romans 3:23]] is foundational to the doctrine of sin. It establishes that every person, without exception, has **come short** of God's perfect standard of glory, necessitating grace.
* **Spiritual Diligence:** Believers are warned not to **fail** of the grace of God [[Hebrews 12:15]] or **come short of** His promised rest [[Hebrews 4:1]]. This implies that a state of spiritual lack is a danger that requires vigilance and faith to avoid.
* **Material vs. Spiritual Wealth:** Jesus tells the rich young man that he still **lackest** one thing, demonstrating that material abundance does not equate to spiritual completeness [[Mark 10:21]]. Conversely, when the disciples were sent out with nothing, they confirmed they **lacked** nothing, showing God's provision [[Luke 22:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5302}}` is a crucial term that defines the human condition of "lacking." It moves from the tangible experience of hunger and poverty to the universal spiritual reality of falling short of God's glory. The word illustrates a core biblical principle: humanity is in a state of need, whether recognized or not, and true sufficiency is found only through divine grace and provision.
TRV