ὑπολιμπάνω (hupolimpanō)
hupolimpanō
to leave behind
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb hupolimpanō means to leave something or someone behind, often in a context of departure or abandonment. It is a compound word combining the prefix hupo, meaning "under" or "behind," with limpanō, which relates to leaving or remaining. This construction emphasizes the act of departing while allowing what was previously present to remain in its place.
In Scripture, this term appears only once, in 1 Peter 2:21, where it describes how Christ suffered as an example for believers to follow. The context suggests that Jesus left behind a pattern of conduct for Christians to emulate, particularly in enduring suffering unjustly. This single usage highlights the word’s theological weight, connecting physical departure with moral legacy.
Translators typically render hupolimpanō as "left behind" or "left an example," capturing both the literal sense of departing and the figurative idea of setting a precedent. The rarity of this verb in the New Testament makes its occurrence in 1 Peter particularly significant, as it underscores Christ’s role as a model for faithful living even in hardship.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hupolimpanō simply means to leave behind. In 1 Peter 2:21, it describes how Jesus suffered for us and left an example. This is not just a historical note. It is a personal invitation to follow His steps when you face hardship.
When life becomes difficult, you do not have to invent your own way through it. The pattern is already there. Christ’s endurance shows that suffering does not mean abandonment by God. Instead, it can be part of a faithful witness. You are called to this same path, trusting that His example is sufficient for your journey.
This leaves you with a clear guide. You do not walk alone into the unknown. The One who suffered faithfully has left a trail of hope. Follow His steps with confidence, knowing that His grace sustains you every day.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- leaving1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὑπολιμπάνων1×
Key Verses
-
I Peter 2:21
For you were called to this, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving you an example, that you should follow his steps,
This verse uniquely uses the word to show Christ leaving a moral pattern of endurance for believers to emulate.