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G1680 · Greek · New Testament
ἐλπίς
elpis
Noun, feminine
hope, expectation

Definition

The NT word for hope, 53 times. Unlike modern English "hope" (uncertainty), biblical elpis is confident expectation grounded in God's character. It is forward-looking certainty: because God has been faithful and has made promises, hope is as solid as the God who guarantees it.

Usage & Theological Significance

Hope is one of Paul's triad: "faith, hope, and love" (1 Corinthians 13:13). It is future-oriented faith — confident expectation that what God has begun, He will complete. The resurrection is the proof God's promises are reliable (1 Peter 1:3). Hope sustains through suffering, anchors the soul, and motivates holiness.

Key Bible Verses

Romans 5:5 Hope [elpis] does not put us to shame.
Hebrews 6:19 This hope [elpis] as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.
1 Peter 1:3 New birth into a living hope [elpis] through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Romans 8:24 In this hope [elpis] we were saved.
Titus 2:13 The blessed hope [elpis] — the appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Word Study

Romans 5:3–5 shows suffering producing perseverance, character, and finally elpis. Hebrews 6:19 calls hope an "anchor" — when storms rage, hope holds the soul steady because it is fastened to God's unchanging promise.

Related Words

External Resources

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