### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hystérēma**, represented by `{{G5303}}`, refers to **a deficit; specially, poverty**. It appears 9 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible. The term is derived from `{{G5302}}` and signifies a state of want, lack, or that which is behind or lacking. Its meaning ranges from literal financial poverty to a more abstract or spiritual deficiency that requires fulfillment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5303}}` is used to describe both material and non-material needs. It describes the profound poverty of the widow who gave "of her **penury**" all she had [[Luke 21:4]]. It is also used to denote a lack that is supplied by fellow believers, such as the **want** of the saints being met through generous giving [[2 Corinthians 9:12]], or Paul’s personal **lack** being supplied by the Macedonian brethren [[2 Corinthians 11:9]]. In a spiritual context, Paul expresses his desire to perfect "that which is **lacking** in your faith" [[1 Thessalonians 3:10]], indicating an area for growth and completion.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of lack and its remedy:
* `{{G5302}}` **hysteréō** (to be later... to fall short (be deficient)): This is the verb form from which `{{G5303}}` is derived. It describes the action of being in want or coming short, such as when all have sinned and "come short" of God's glory [[Romans 3:23]].
* `{{G4051}}` **perísseuma** (a surplus, or superabundance): This word serves as the direct opposite of `{{G5303}}`. It is used in contrast to highlight the principle of mutual support, where one's **abundance** should supply another's **want** [[2 Corinthians 8:14]].
* `{{G378}}` **anaplēróō** (to complete; by implication, to occupy, supply): This verb describes the action of filling a lack. It is used when others **supply** the Philippians' **lack** of service toward Paul [[Philippians 2:30]] and when Stephanas and others **supplied** what was **lacking** on the part of the Corinthians [[1 Corinthians 16:17]].
* `{{G4322}}` **prosanaplēróō** (to fill up further, i.e. furnish fully): This word emphasizes the full provision for a need, as when the giving of the Corinthians **supplieth** the **want** of the saints [[2 Corinthians 9:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5303}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of Christian life and community.
* **Reciprocal Generosity:** The term is central to the principle of **equality** `{{G2471}}` within the church, where the **abundance** `{{G4051}}` of one part of the body is meant to supply the **want** `{{G5303}}` of another, ensuring mutual care and provision [[2 Corinthians 8:14]].
* **Participatory Suffering:** In a profound statement, Paul speaks of his desire to "fill up **that which is behind** of the **afflictions** `{{G2347}}` of Christ" in his own flesh for the church's sake [[Colossians 1:24]]. This use of `{{G5303}}` points to the believer's role in participating in the suffering that the church, as Christ's body, endures in the world.
* **Spiritual Maturation:** The concept of a **lack** in one's faith [[1 Thessalonians 3:10]] implies that spiritual life is a process of growth. This **lack** is not a permanent failure but an area to be perfected, or completed, through apostolic teaching and fellowship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5303}}` is more than a simple word for poverty or need. It functions as a critical term that illustrates the dynamic interplay of need and supply within the Christian community. It defines not only material **want** but also spiritual incompleteness and the shared **sufferings** `{{G3804}}` of believers. Through this word, scripture teaches that what is **lacking** in one area can be supplied by the abundance of another, reflecting a core tenet of fellowship in the body of Christ.
TRV