ἀντίτυπος (antitupos)
antitupos
representation
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word antitupos describes something that serves as a counterpart or exact copy of an original pattern. Its core meaning is rooted in the idea of an impression made by a seal, where the resulting mark corresponds precisely to the shape of the die. In Scripture, this term appears only twice, yet it carries significant theological weight by linking earthly realities to their heavenly prototypes.
In Hebrews 9:24, the word clarifies that Christ entered heaven itself, not a man-made sanctuary, which is described as an antitupos—a mere copy or shadow of the true reality. Conversely, 1 Peter 3:21 uses the term in reverse order to explain baptism. Here, baptism is not the water itself but the antitupos, the corresponding answer or shape that aligns with the salvation experienced by Noah and his family through the flood.
This usage highlights a deliberate structural parallel rather than a simple similarity. The sources note that the word emphasizes correspondence between two distinct entities: one serving as the archetype and the other as its faithful representation. By using antitupos, the biblical authors establish a clear typological relationship, showing how later events or rituals reflect the form and purpose of earlier divine actions.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word antitupos reminds us that our physical world often reflects a deeper, heavenly reality. In Hebrews, we learn that earthly sanctuaries are merely copies or shadows of the true presence of God. This means Christ did not enter a man-made building but heaven itself, offering us direct access to God’s presence. We do not need to search for God in distant places; He is near through Jesus.
This concept also brings comfort in our daily walk. Just as Noah’s family was saved through water, baptism serves as an antitupos—a corresponding shape that aligns with God’s saving work. It is not the water itself that saves, but the commitment to God that it represents. This connection shows how ordinary acts like washing or praying can mirror profound spiritual truths.
Understanding this relationship helps us see our lives as part of a larger story. Our faith is not isolated but linked to God’s eternal plan. When we feel unsure, remember that Christ has already entered the true sanctuary for us. We rest in the assurance that our connection to Him is real and secure, grounded in His resurrection power.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- prefigures1×
- copies1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀντίτυπον1×
- ἀντίτυπα1×
Key Verses
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Hebrews 9:24
For Christ hasn’t entered into holy places made with hands, which are representations of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us;
This verse clarifies that Christ entered heaven itself, not a man-made sanctuary which is described as an antitupos—a mere copy or shadow of the true reality.