### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hṓsper**, represented by `{{G5618}}`, means **just as** or **exactly like**. It appears 42 times across 42 unique verses in the Bible. This adverb is used to create a direct and forceful comparison, drawing an exact parallel between two subjects to illustrate a spiritual truth, a behavioral standard, or a theological principle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5618}}` is used to establish powerful comparisons. It is frequently employed to draw parallels between Christ's actions and the believer's life, such as being buried with him in baptism so that **just as** Christ was raised, believers might walk in newness of life [[Romans 6:4]]. The word also sets up contrasts, warning believers not to be **as** the hypocrites who perform religious acts to be seen by men [[Matthew 6:5]]. Furthermore, it connects Old Testament events to New Testament realities, explaining that **as** Jonas was in the whale's belly, so the Son of man would be in the heart of the earth [[Matthew 12:40]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used within the comparisons set up by `{{G5618}}`, clarifying the nature of the parallel:
* `{{G5046}}` **téleios** (complete; perfect): This word establishes the standard of the comparison. Believers are commanded to be **perfect**, **just as** their Father in heaven is perfect [[Matthew 5:48]].
* `{{G5273}}` **hypokritḗs** (a dissembler, "hypocrite"): This term often serves as the negative example in a comparison, showing what believers should not emulate. For instance, when giving alms, one should not sound a trumpet **as** the **hypocrites** do [[Matthew 6:2]].
* `{{G5218}}` **hypakoḗ** (obedience): This highlights the result of a theological parallel. **As** by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the **obedience** of one shall many be made righteous [[Romans 5:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5618}}` is significant, as it frames some of the most foundational doctrines of the Christian faith.
* **The Adam-Christ Parallel:** The word is crucial for explaining the concept of federal headship. **As** in Adam all die, so in Christ all shall be made alive [[1 Corinthians 15:22]]. It also structures the argument that **as** sin reigned through one man's disobedience, grace reigns through the righteousness of one ([[Romans 5:19]], [[Romans 5:21]]).
* **Union with Christ:** It is used to illustrate the believer's spiritual union with Christ's death and resurrection. The believer is buried with Christ so that **as** Christ was raised by the glory of the Father, we too should walk in newness of life [[Romans 6:4]].
* **Eschatological Certainty:** `{{G5618}}` describes the visible and undeniable nature of Christ's return, comparing it to a natural phenomenon. **As** the lightning comes from the east and shines to the west, so shall the coming of the Son of man be [[Matthew 24:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5618}}` functions as a precise connector, moving beyond simple similarity to establish direct equivalence for the sake of illustration. It serves as a key rhetorical device to teach doctrine, ethics, and eschatology. By linking the known to the unknown—the earthly to the heavenly, the historical to the present—**hṓsper** illuminates core biblical truths, from the call to be perfect like the Father to the substitutionary work of Christ.
TRV