### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypsóō**, represented by `{{G5312}}`, means **to elevate (literally or figuratively)**. It appears 22 times across 16 unique verses in the Bible. The term carries a dual meaning, referring both to a physical lifting and a figurative exaltation to a higher status or position of honor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5312}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It is notably used to describe the lifting up of the Son of Man, drawing a parallel to how "Moses **lifted up** the serpent in the wilderness" [[John 3:14]]. Jesus states that when he is **lifted up** from the earth, he will draw all men to himself [[John 12:32]]. The word also expresses a core spiritual principle: "whosoever shall **exalt** himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be **exalted**" [[Matthew 23:12]]. Furthermore, it describes God's sovereign action, such as when he **exalted** the people of Israel during their time in Egypt [[Acts 13:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide contrast and clarify the meaning of being exalted:
* `{{G5013}}` **tapeinóō** (to depress; figuratively, to humiliate (in condition or heart)): This word is the direct antonym to exaltation and is frequently used to establish the principle that one must first **humble** oneself before the Lord to be lifted up [[James 4:10]].
* `{{G2601}}` **katabibázō** (to cause to go down, i.e. precipitate): This term describes the consequence of arrogant self-exaltation. The city of Capernaum, which was **exalted** to heaven, is warned it will be **brought down** to hell [[Matthew 11:23]].
* `{{G2507}}` **kathairéō** (to lower (or with violence) demolish (literally or figuratively)): This word signifies a forceful bringing down, often used to describe God's reversal of worldly power structures, where He has "put down the mighty from their seats, and **exalted** them of low degree" [[Luke 1:52]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5312}}` is significant and multifaceted:
* **The Elevation of Christ:** The term is crucial to understanding Christ's work. His being **lifted up** refers to his crucifixion and subsequent glorification, an event through which salvation is offered [[John 3:14]]. After this, God **exalted** him with His right hand as Prince and Saviour [[Acts 5:31]].
* **The Principle of Humility:** Scripture repeatedly uses `{{G5312}}` to teach that God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble. Self-exaltation leads to being abased, while humbling oneself before God leads to being **exalted** by Him in due time ([[1 Peter 5:6]], [[Luke 14:11]]).
* **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty:** The word highlights God's authority to reverse human hierarchies. Cities that **exalt** themselves in pride face judgment [[Luke 10:15]], while God sovereignly chooses to **exalt** the humble and those of low degree [[Luke 1:52]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5312}}` is a pivotal term that moves beyond a simple definition of elevation. It theologically connects the crucifixion of Christ to His glorification, establishes the spiritual law that humility precedes divine exaltation, and demonstrates God's ultimate power to judge pride and elevate the humble. The word illustrates a divine economy where true exaltation is a gift from God, not a human achievement.
TRV