ὑπείκω (hupeikō)
hupeikō
to submit
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb hupeikō describes the act of yielding or submitting to authority and admonition. Its literal sense involves retreating or giving way in a conflict, but in Scripture it is used metaphorically for believers who respectfully submit to their leaders. This usage appears in Hebrews 13:17, where Christians are urged to obey those who watch over them.
The word combines a prefix meaning "under" with a root meaning "to yield" or "be weak." This etymology highlights a posture of humility rather than defeat. Translators often render it as "submit," capturing the idea of voluntarily laying down resistance to rightful guidance. The term emphasizes a willing alignment with authority, reflecting a heart that values order and mutual care within the community of faith.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hupeikō carries a gentle but firm call to align ourselves with spiritual oversight. It suggests a voluntary yielding, not out of fear or defeat, but from a heart that recognizes the value of order and care within the community. When we submit to leaders, we are participating in a shared journey toward spiritual health, trusting that their guidance is meant for our benefit.
This submission is rooted in humility and mutual respect. Leaders watch over souls with accountability, and believers respond with trust and cooperation. This dynamic fosters an environment where joy flourishes rather than groaning. It reminds us that faith is lived out in relationship, where we support one another under wise direction.
Ultimately, hupeikō invites us to embrace a posture of openness to God’s design for community. By yielding to those who care for our spiritual well-being, we honor the structure Christ has provided. This act of submission becomes a quiet strength, reflecting our dependence on God and our commitment to unity in the body of believers.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do be submissive;1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὑπείκετε·1×
Key Verses
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Hebrews 13:17
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch on behalf of your souls, as those who will give account, that they may do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be unprofitable for you.
This verse uniquely uses hupeikō to describe believers' active yielding to leaders, linking submission to the leaders' joyful and accountable care for souls.