of uncertain derivation; blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of Christ); by implication, bloodshed, also kindred:--blood.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun αἷμα (haîma), Strong's `{{G129}}`, primarily denotes "blood" in its literal sense, referring to the vital fluid of both humans and animals. Its derivation is considered uncertain, yet its semantic range in the New Testament is remarkably rich and multifaceted. Beyond its literal meaning, αἷμα extends figuratively to represent the "juice of grapes," particularly in prophetic or eschatological contexts, symbolizing divine wrath or judgment. Most profoundly, αἷμα carries a specialized theological meaning, referring specifically to the atoning blood of Jesus Christ, which serves as the means of redemption, purification, and the establishment of the New Covenant. By implication, αἷμα can also signify "bloodshed," often denoting violent death or martyrdom, and less commonly, "kindred" or lineage, though this latter sense is less prominent in the New Testament than its other applications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word αἷμα appears frequently throughout the New Testament, with its significance heavily influenced by its context.
Literally, it describes physical blood, such as that flowing from Christ's side on the cross ([[John 19:34]]) or the blood of those martyred for their faith ([[Revelation 6:10]]). In the context of the Old Testament sacrificial system, referenced in Hebrews, αἷμα of animals is central to the Levitical law for purification and atonement, though it is ultimately deemed insufficient to truly take away sin ([[Hebrews 9:7-10]]).
Figuratively, αἷμα is used to depict the "blood of grapes," as seen in the imagery of the winepress of God's wrath ([[Revelation 14:20]], [[Revelation 19:13]]), where the treading of grapes results in a deluge resembling blood. This imagery underscores the severity and totality of divine judgment.
Theologically, the most profound and prevalent use of αἷμα pertains to the blood of Jesus Christ. This is the "atoning blood" that forms the foundation of Christian salvation.
* **Covenant:** Christ's blood is explicitly identified as the "blood of the covenant" or "blood of the new covenant" ([[Matthew 26:28]], [[Mark 14:24]], [[Luke 22:20]], [[1 Corinthians 11:25]]), signifying the establishment of a new relationship between God and humanity based on His sacrifice.
* **Redemption and Forgiveness:** Through His blood, believers are redeemed ([[Ephesians 1:7]], [[Colossians 1:14]]) and have forgiveness of sins ([[Hebrews 9:22]]).
* **Justification:** We are "justified by His blood" ([[Romans 5:9]]), declared righteous before God.
* **Purification and Cleansing:** The blood of Christ cleanses from sin and purifies the conscience ([[Hebrews 9:14]], [[1 John 1:7]]). It grants access to the Holy of Holies ([[Hebrews 10:19]]).
* **Peace and Reconciliation:** By His blood, peace is made, reconciling all things to God ([[Colossians 1:20]]).
* **Purchase of the Church:** The church is described as having been purchased with Christ's own blood ([[Acts 20:28]]).
* **Overcoming Evil:** Believers overcome the accuser "by the blood of the Lamb" ([[Revelation 12:11]]), highlighting its power against spiritual forces.
The concept of "shedding innocent blood" is also a significant ethical and moral theme, condemning violence and injustice ([[Matthew 23:35]], [[Acts 22:20]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of αἷμα is enriched by its connections to several key biblical terms and theological concepts. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for blood is `{{H1818}}` (dam), which carries similar literal and symbolic weight, particularly in the context of the Mosaic Law where "the life of the flesh is in the blood" ([[Leviticus 17:11]]). This verse is foundational to understanding the sacrificial system, where blood was offered for atonement.
Related Greek terms in the New Testament include:
* `{{G2378}}` (thysia): "sacrifice," often used in conjunction with αἷμα to describe Christ's atoning work.
* `{{G2434}}` (hilasmos) / `{{G2435}}` (hilasterion): "propitiation" or "atoning sacrifice," emphasizing the satisfaction of divine justice through Christ's blood.
* `{{G629}}` (apolutrosis): "redemption" or "release by payment of a ransom," directly linked to the price paid by Christ's blood.
* `{{G2605}}` (kainē diathēkē): "new covenant," which is explicitly inaugurated by Christ's blood.
* `{{G266}}` (hamartia): "sin," the very problem that Christ's blood addresses.
* `{{G3588}}` (nomos): "law," as Christ's blood fulfills the requirements of the Old Covenant law.
Concepts like atonement, redemption, justification, purification, reconciliation, sacrifice, and covenant are inextricably linked to the meaning and theological significance of αἷμα. The idea of "life" itself is also deeply tied to blood, making Christ's shed blood a paradox of death leading to eternal life.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of αἷμα is paramount in Christian doctrine, serving as the very core of the Gospel message. It represents the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which effectively atones for human sin. Unlike the repeated animal sacrifices of the Old Covenant, Christ's shedding of His αἷμα was a singular, definitive, and eternal act ([[Hebrews 9:12]], [[Hebrews 10:10]]).
This divine act of bleeding and dying establishes the New Covenant, replacing the old one based on legalistic adherence with a relationship founded on grace and forgiveness. Through Christ's αἷμα, believers are not merely forgiven but are justified, declared righteous before God, and reconciled to Him. It is the means by which humanity, alienated by sin, can draw near to a holy God ([[Hebrews 10:19-20]]).
Furthermore, the αἷμα of Christ possesses purifying power, cleansing the conscience from dead works to serve the living God ([[Hebrews 9:14]]) and sanctifying those who are set apart for Him ([[Hebrews 13:12]]). It is the foundation of spiritual life for the believer, providing access to God's presence and empowering victory over sin and spiritual adversaries. The reverence for Christ's αἷμα underscores the immense cost of salvation and the depth of God's love.
### Summary
The Greek word αἷμα (haîma), Strong's `{{G129}}`, carries a profound and central theological weight in the New Testament. While literally referring to blood, its most significant usage is in relation to the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His shed αἷμα is the foundation of the New Covenant, the means of redemption, the source of forgiveness, and the basis for justification and purification for all who believe. It signifies the ultimate price paid for salvation, transforming humanity's relationship with God and providing access to His presence. Far from a mere biological substance, αἷμα in Christian theology represents the life-giving, sin-cleansing, and covenant-establishing power of God's grace revealed through His Son.
TRV