### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hōde**, represented by `{{G5602}}`, is an adverb used to indicate a specific location, meaning **here**, **hither**, or **in this place**. It appears **60 times** across **56 unique verses** in the Bible, often marking a point of critical action, declaration, or divine presence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5602}}` is used to pinpoint significant locations and moments. It is famously used at the empty tomb, where an angel declares to the women, "He is not **here**: for he is risen" ([[Matthew 28:6]], [[Mark 16:6]]). Jesus uses the word to assert his authority, stating that something "greater than the temple" [[Matthew 12:6]], "greater than Jonas" [[Matthew 12:41]], and "greater than Solomon" [[Matthew 12:42]] is **here**. It also functions as a command of movement, as when Jesus tells his disciples to "**bring** him **hither**" [[Matthew 17:17]] or when a voice from heaven invites John to "**Come up hither**" [[Revelation 4:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of location and movement associated with **hōde**:
* `{{G1563}}` **ekeî** (there): This adverb serves as the direct counterpart to **hōde**, often used in contrast to distinguish between two places, as in the warning not to be deceived by claims of Christ being "Lo **here**! or, lo **there**!" [[Luke 17:21]].
* `{{G1205}}` **deûte** (come hither!): This imperative is an explicit call to move toward the speaker's location. It is used as an invitation, such as when the angel at the tomb says "**Come**, see the place where the Lord lay" [[Matthew 28:6]].
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This verb describes the action of arrival. It is linked to **hōde** when someone's arrival at a specific place is questioned or stated, as when the demons ask Jesus, "art thou **come hither** to torment us?" [[Matthew 8:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5602}}` is significant, marking pivotal shifts in understanding God's plan.
* **Christ's Supremacy:** Jesus' declarations that one "greater than the temple" [[Matthew 12:6]] and "greater than Solomon" [[Matthew 12:42]] is **here** establishes his divine authority over Israel's most sacred institutions and figures.
* **The Resurrection:** The phrase "He is not **here**" [[Matthew 28:6]] is a cornerstone of the gospel. It announces Christ's victory over death and the shift from a physically bound messiah to a risen Lord whose presence is no longer confined to one place.
* **The Spiritual Kingdom:** By warning against seeking the kingdom of God with shouts of "Lo **here**! or, lo **there**!" [[Luke 17:21]], scripture uses **hōde** to teach that the kingdom is not a physical territory but a spiritual reality found within believers.
* **Call for Endurance and Wisdom:** In Revelation, **hōde** serves as a signpost for believers, indicating moments that require divine wisdom and steadfast patience, such as in the phrases "**Here** is wisdom" [[Revelation 13:18]] and "**Here** is the patience of the saints" [[Revelation 13:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5602}}` functions as more than a simple adverb of place. It marks scenes of profound theological importance, from the announcement of the resurrection to declarations of Christ's supreme authority. The word **hōde** is used to distinguish between temporary, physical presence and eternal, spiritual reality, commanding attention to what God is doing "in this place" at a decisive moment in salvation history. It highlights the transition from a tangible location to the spiritual nature of Christ's kingdom and the wisdom needed to discern it.
TRV