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 word **haîma**, represented by `{{G129}}`, is a pivotal term for **blood**. Appearing **99 times** across **92 unique verses**, its meaning extends far beyond the literal substance. Scripture uses it to denote not only the physical fluid of humans and animals but also, figuratively, the atoning sacrifice of Christ, the act of bloodshed, and the concept of kinship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G129}}` carries significant weight in several contexts. It is frequently used in the phrase "flesh and **blood**" to refer to mortal humanity, emphasizing human limitations in contrast to spiritual realities ([[Ephesians 6:12]], [[Matthew 16:17]]). Most critically, it signifies the basis of the new covenant and the means of salvation. Christ's **blood** is described as that which was shed for the remission of sins [[Matthew 26:28]], provides redemption [[Ephesians 1:7]], and purchases the church of God [[Acts 20:28]]. It is also used in scenes of judgment, such as the moon turning to **blood** [[Revelation 6:12]] and martyrs crying out for their **blood** to be avenged [[Revelation 6:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the function and meaning of `{{G129}}`:
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): Often paired with **blood** to signify humanity in its mortal, earthly state [[Galatians 1:16]]. The two terms together define the physical realm our struggles transcend [[Ephesians 6:12]].
* `{{G130}}` **haimatekchysía** (shedding of blood): A compound term derived from `{{G129}}`, it specifically refers to the act of effusion. It is used to make the critical point that without the **shedding of blood** there is no remission of sin [[Hebrews 9:22]].
* `{{G1632}}` **ekchéō** (to pour forth; figuratively, to bestow): This verb describes the action of Christ's sacrifice, where his **blood** is "shed" for many [[Mark 14:24]].
* `{{G2511}}` **katharízō** (to cleanse, purge, purify): This word describes the effect of Christ's **blood**, which "cleanseth us from all sin" [[1 John 1:7]] and purges our conscience from dead works [[Hebrews 9:14]].
* `{{G629}}` **apolýtrōsis** (riddance, or Christian salvation): This redemption is explicitly obtained through Christ's **blood**, which brings about the forgiveness of sins [[Colossians 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G129}}` is central to the Christian faith. It underpins key doctrines of salvation and sanctification.
* **Atonement and Redemption:** The **blood** of Christ is presented as the precious price paid for redemption. Believers are justified by his **blood** [[Romans 5:9]], redeemed by it [[Revelation 5:9]], and it serves as the propitiation for sin through faith [[Romans 3:25]].
* **Purification and Cleansing:** The concept of being washed and made clean is tied directly to `{{G129}}`. Believers are washed from their sins in his **blood** [[Revelation 1:5]], and their robes are made white in the **blood** of the Lamb [[Revelation 7:14]].
* **Establishment of the New Covenant:** Christ's **blood** is the seal of the "everlasting covenant" [[Hebrews 13:20]]. This covenant offers remission of sins and a new relationship with God, superseding the sacrifices of **blood** from goats and calves [[Hebrews 9:12]].
* **Peacemaking and Reconciliation:** Through the **blood** of his cross, Christ made peace, reconciling all things to God, whether on earth or in heaven [[Colossians 1:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G129}}` is a term loaded with profound spiritual meaning. While it can refer to physical life and lineage, its most significant use in the New Testament is to define the basis of Christian redemption. The **blood** of Christ is the foundation for forgiveness, purification, peace with God, and the establishment of the new covenant, making it one of the most vital theological concepts in Scripture.
TRV