ὑποκάτω (hupokatō)
hupokatō
under
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 11 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word hupokatō functions as an adverb meaning "under" or "beneath." It describes physical position, indicating that something is located directly below another object or person. This simple spatial term appears in several key passages across the Gospels and Revelation, grounding abstract concepts in tangible reality.
In Matthew 22:44 and Mark 12:36, Jesus quotes Psalm 110 to describe the Messiah sitting at God’s right hand while his enemies are placed hupokatō—literally under his feet. This usage emphasizes a relationship of subjection and authority rather than mere location. Similarly, in Mark 6:11, the instruction to shake off dust from one’s feet hupokatō suggests a complete removal of association with hostile places.
The term also appears in Revelation to depict cosmic realities, such as creatures worshipping below the throne (Revelation 5:3) or souls under the altar (Revelation 6:9). These instances use the word to establish a hierarchy within the spiritual realm. By consistently placing created beings or forces beneath divine authority, hupokatō reinforces the theme of God’s supreme sovereignty over all creation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hupokatō simply means 'under,' yet it carries a weighty spiritual significance in Scripture. It describes physical position—something located beneath another—but also points to relationships of authority and subjection. When Jesus quotes Psalm 110, saying enemies will be placed under His feet, He is not just describing geography; He is declaring His supreme lordship over all opposing forces.
This truth offers deep comfort. Whether you are facing personal struggles or global uncertainty, the same Christ who sits at God’s right hand holds authority over everything beneath Him. Even in Revelation, where souls are seen under the altar, the word reminds us that our suffering is seen and held within His sovereign care. You do not need to fear what lies beneath your feet, for it is all subject to Him.
Consider how this applies to your daily life. When challenges arise, remember that they are 'under' Christ’s authority, not above it. This perspective shifts our focus from the size of our problems to the greatness of our Lord. It invites us to rest in the assurance that He is in control, guiding all things toward His good purpose.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 11 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- under10×
- [as] a footstool1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὑποκάτω11×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 22:44
‘The Lord said to my Lord, sit on my right hand, until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet’?
Jesus uses this spatial term to quote Psalm 110, establishing the Messiah's authority over enemies by placing them under His feet.
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Hebrews 2:8
You have put all things in subjection under his feet.” For in that he subjected all things to him, he left nothing that is not subject to him. But now we don’t yet see all things subjected to him.
The author applies this word to show that God has subjected all things to Christ, even if we do not yet see it fully realized.
-
Revelation of John 6:9
When he opened the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been killed for the Word of God, and for the testimony of the Lamb which they had.
This occurrence places the souls of martyrs literally under the altar, highlighting their position before God in a moment of divine justice.