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G352 · Greek · New Testament
ἀνακύπτω
Anakuptō
Verb, active
Lift up (one's head) / Stand erect

Definition

Anakuptō means to lift up one's head, to straighten up, or to raise oneself up after being bowed down. It is a compound of ana (up) and kuptō (to stoop/bend). Appearing only 4 times in the NT, it is used of physical straightening (the bent woman healed by Jesus; rising from shame) and the eschatological lifting of the head at the approach of redemption (Luke 21:28).

Usage & Theological Significance

The most powerful theological use is Luke 21:28: "When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads [anakupsate], because your redemption is drawing near." In contrast to the world's despair and fear at end-time events, disciples are to lift their faces — the physical posture of hope and anticipation. This is the same movement as the woman "straightened up" after 18 years of bondage (Luke 13:11–13) — liberation reverses the bent-over posture of oppression. Christ lifts what sin has bowed down.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 21:28 When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads [anakupsate], because your redemption is drawing near.
Luke 13:11 A woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up [anakupsai] at all.
Luke 13:13 Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up [anōrthōthē] and praised God.
John 8:7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up [anekupsen] and said to them, 'Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.'
John 8:10 Jesus straightened up [anakupsas] and asked her, 'Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?'

Related Words

External Resources

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