Higher Authority: ὑπερέχω (Strong’s G5242: hyperechō) Reveals God-Ordained Order

Strong’s G5242: A compound verb combining ὑπέρ (above) and ἔχω (to hold/have), meaning “to hold above, be superior, excel.” Used in the New Testament to describe legitimate authority, especially regarding civil government and the surpassing value of knowing the Messiah.

U – Unveiling the Word

The verb ὑπερέχω expresses the concept of superior position or authority. As a compound word combining “above” (ὑπέρ) with “to hold” (ἔχω), it describes the state of being higher or having authority over others. In the New Testament, this word appears in contexts discussing both civil authority and spiritual excellence, particularly in Paul’s writings about governmental authority and the supreme worth of knowing the Messiah. The early church understood this term as expressing both legitimate human authority and divine supremacy. Today, this word continues to teach us about proper submission to authority while recognizing the ultimate superiority of Christ.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: ὑπερέχω, hyperechō, /hy.per.e.khō/
• Detailed pronunciation: hü-per-e’-khō (where ü as in German über)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Prefix: ὑπέρ (hyper) meaning “above”
• Root: ἔχω (echō) meaning “to hold/have”
• Combined meaning: “to hold above, be superior”

D – Defining Meanings

• To be superior
• To hold authority over
• To excel
• To surpass

For compound words: The prefix ὑπέρ combined with ἔχω creates the concept of holding a position above others or having superior status.

Translation Options:

• “to hold authority” – emphasizes position
• “to be superior” – captures excellence
• “to surpass in rank” – highlights hierarchical position

E – Exploring Similar Words

• κρατέω (krateō) /kra.te.ō/ – to have power – See G2902
• ἄρχω (archō) /ar.khō/ – to rule – See G757
• προΐστημι (proistēmi) /pro.i.stē.mi/ – to lead – See G4291

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Features of this verb:

• Tense: Present
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Participle
• Person: Not Applicable
• Number: Plural/Singular
• Aspect: Continuous

Common forms include:

• ὑπερέχων – excelling (participle)
• ὑπερέχουσαι – excelling (feminine plural participle)
• ὑπερέχει – excels (indicative)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The lexicons provide rich insight into ὑπερέχω’s meaning and usage. BDAG emphasizes its use in describing legitimate authority structures. Thayer’s notes its development from physical position to authority and excellence. LSJ traces its classical usage in contexts of superiority and governance. Vine’s highlights its dual application to civil authority and spiritual excellence. Strong’s emphasizes the compound nature of the word and its implications of superior position. Moulton and Milligan document its common use in administrative and legal contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Romans 13:1: “Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities [ὑπερέχω]. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.”

Additional References:
Philippians 2:3, Philippians 3:8, Philippians 4:7, 1 Peter 2:13

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word ὑπερέχω beautifully balances divine and human authority. It teaches us about proper submission to earthly authorities while reminding us of the supreme excellence of knowing Christ. This word proclaims the good news by showing that while we respect human authority, we recognize an ultimate authority in the Messiah that surpasses all earthly powers. It helps us navigate the tension between earthly submission and heavenly allegiance.

D – Did You Know?

• ὑπερέχω appears five times in the New Testament
• It’s used both for civil authority and Christ’s supremacy
• The word influenced early church teaching on authority

Strong’s G5242: A compound verb combining ὑπέρ (above) and ἔχω (to hold/have), meaning “to hold above, be superior, excel.” Used in the New Testament to describe legitimate authority, especially regarding civil government and the surpassing value of knowing the Messiah.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: authority, superiority, excellence, government, submission, biblical Greek, New Testament Greek, civil order, Christ’s supremacy, leadership​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​