ὥσπερ (hōsper)
hōsper
just as
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 36 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek adverb hōsper means "just as" or "even as," serving to draw a precise comparison between two situations. It appears thirty-six times in the New Testament, with significant usage in Matthew and Paul’s letters. The word functions as a marker of similarity, linking one reality to another that is already known or understood.
Its structure combines two elements meaning "as" and "even," creating an emphasis on exactness. This distinction sets it apart from simpler comparative terms by insisting on a tight parallel. Paul uses this forceful comparison in Romans 5:19, where he links the disobedience of one man to the obedience of another, establishing a theological symmetry that defines Christian understanding of grace.
A characteristic pattern involves pairing hōsper with houtōs ("thus" or "in this way") to create a balanced analogy. This structure appears in Matthew 12:40 and Luke 17:24, where the events of Jesus’ time are compared directly to past historical moments. The conjunction ensures that the reader sees not just a loose resemblance, but a deliberate structural echo between the past event and its present fulfillment.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hōsper invites us into a world of precise comparison. It does not suggest a vague similarity but a tight structural echo between two realities. When Scripture uses this term, it is drawing a line from something familiar to something profound, helping us grasp divine truths through earthly patterns.
In Romans 5:19, for instance, the text links Adam’s disobedience with Christ’s obedience. This comparison shows that just as one man brought sin into the world, another man brings righteousness. It is a reminder that our spiritual standing is not based on our own efforts but on the faithful work of Jesus.
This pattern appears often in the Gospels, such as when Jesus compares His coming to the sudden flash of lightning. These images are not just poetic; they are invitations to see God’s actions clearly. By understanding these connections, we find comfort in the consistency of God’s character and the reliability of His promises.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 36 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- as11×
- just as5×
- Just as5×
- like3×
- even as3×
- For as3×
- As3×
- [It is] like1×
- Even as1×
- As [were]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὥσπερ34×
- Ὥσπερ2×
Key Verses
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Romans 5:19
For as through the one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the one, many will be made righteous.
This verse establishes a theological symmetry where Christ's obedience directly parallels Adam's disobedience, defining the basis for human righteousness.
-
Matthew 24:27
For as the lightning flashes from the east, and is seen even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be.
The comparison to lightning emphasizes the suddenness and universal visibility of the Son of Man's return, contrasting with hidden or gradual expectations.
-
Romans 6:4
We were buried therefore with him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.
Here the word links the believer's baptism to Christ's resurrection, illustrating that our new life is structurally tied to His victory over death.
-
Luke 17:24
for as the lightning, when it flashes out of one part under the sky, shines to another part under the sky, so will the Son of Man be in his day.
This occurrence reinforces the inevitability and widespread visibility of Jesus' return by comparing it to lightning shining across the sky.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does hōsper mean in the New Testament?
How is hōsper different from other Greek words for 'like'?
Where does this word appear most frequently?
Every Occurrence (36 verses across 12 books)
Matthew 10 verses
Therefore, when you do merciful deeds, don’t sound a trumpet before yourself, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues…
Matthew 6:7In praying, don’t use vain repetitions as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their much…
Matthew 12:40For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the huge fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and…
Matthew 13:40As therefore the darnel weeds are gathered up and burned with fire; so will it be at the end of this age.
Matthew 18:17If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the assembly. If he refuses to hear the assembly also, let him be to you as…
Matthew 20:28even as the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Matthew 24:27For as the lightning flashes from the east, and is seen even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be.
Matthew 24:37As the days of Noah were, so will the coming of the Son of Man be.
Matthew 25:14“For it is like a man going into another country, who called his own servants and entrusted his goods to them.
Matthew 25:32Before him all the nations will be gathered, and he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the…