Spiritual Heights: ὕψωμα (Strong’s G5313: hypsōma) Reveals God’s Unmatched Power

Strong’s G5313: A noun denoting elevation or height, both literal and metaphorical. Derived from ὑψόω (to lift up), it symbolizes exalted positions, spiritual barriers, or heights that attempt to stand against divine knowledge, particularly in Pauline theology. Represents the concept of anything elevated or lifted up in opposition to God’s truth.

U- Unveiling the Word

The word ὕψωμα (hypsōma) carries profound theological significance in its representation of height or elevation, both in physical and spiritual contexts. In Pauline literature, it particularly emphasizes the concept of spiritual opposition or barriers that attempt to stand against the knowledge of God. The term embodies the idea of anything that exalts itself against divine truth, whether human philosophies, spiritual powers, or prideful thoughts. In early church usage, it became a powerful metaphor for discussing spiritual warfare and the triumph of God’s wisdom over human reasoning. Today, this word remains particularly relevant as we face various ideologies and systems that elevate themselves against the truth of the Gospel, reminding us of our need to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of the Messiah.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ὕψωμα, hypsōma, hoop’-so-mah
• Pronunciation Guide: hoop (as in “hoop”) + SO (as in “so”) + mah (as in “ma”)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• ὑψ- (hyps-): root meaning “high” or “elevated”
• -ωμα (-ōma): nominal suffix indicating the result of an action
  Combined, these elements create a noun meaning “that which is elevated” or “a height”

D – Defining Meanings

• An elevated place or height (literal)
• A barrier or obstacle (metaphorical)
• An exalted position or state
• Something raised in opposition

For compound words:
The root ὑψ- provides the core meaning of “height” or “elevation,” while the suffix -ωμα transforms the concept into a concrete noun representing the result or product of being raised up.

Translation Options:

• “High thing” – emphasizes its physical or metaphorical elevation
• “Stronghold” – captures the defensive, opposing nature in spiritual contexts
• “Exalted position” – reflects its usage regarding status or authority

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὑψηλός (hypsēlos, hoop-say-los’) – high, lofty, proud See G5308
• ὕψος (hypsos, hoop’-sos) – height, high position See G5311
• ὑψόω (hypsoō, hoop-so’-o) – to lift up, exalt See G5312

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a noun:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Third declension

The word follows standard third declension patterns:

• Nominative singular: ὕψωμα
• Genitive singular: ὑψώματος
• Dative singular: ὑψώματι
• Accusative singular: ὕψωμα

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The major lexicons provide a rich understanding of ὕψωμα. BDAG emphasizes its use in both literal and metaphorical contexts, particularly noting its military connotation as a “height” or “elevated position” that could provide tactical advantage. Thayer’s expands on this, connecting it to the idea of mental elevation or pride that sets itself against divine knowledge. LSJ provides additional classical usage examples where the term describes architectural heights or elevated positions. Vine’s particularly notes its use in 2 Corinthians 10:5 regarding strongholds of human reasoning that oppose God’s truth. Moulton and Milligan provide papyri evidence showing its use in administrative contexts for elevated positions of authority.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Romans 8:39: “nor height [ὕψωμα] nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in the Messiah Jesus our Lord”

Additional References:
2 Corinthians 10:5

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word ὕψωμα powerfully illustrates the cosmic scope of God’s supreme authority and love. In Romans 8:39, it demonstrates that no height – whether physical, spiritual, or metaphorical – can separate us from God’s love in the Messiah. This truth proclaims the good news that King Jesus’ authority and love transcend all barriers, powers, and opposing forces. In spiritual warfare contexts, it reminds us that every high thing exalting itself against God’s knowledge must bow before the Messiah’s supremacy.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word ὕψωμα was used in ancient Greek astronomy to describe the highest point of a celestial body’s orbit.
2. In military contexts, it often referred to defensive positions on high ground that provided tactical advantages.
3. Early church fathers used this term to discuss spiritual pride and the importance of humility before God.

Strong’s G5313: A noun denoting elevation or height, both literal and metaphorical. Derived from ὑψόω (to lift up), it symbolizes exalted positions, spiritual barriers, or heights that attempt to stand against divine knowledge, particularly in Pauline theology. Represents the concept of anything elevated or lifted up in opposition to God’s truth.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: height, elevation, stronghold, spiritual warfare, opposition, pride, authority, power, victory, Paul, Romans, barriers, spiritual resistance, divine love, triumph​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​