### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aítios**, represented by `{{G159}}`, means a **causer** or, concretely, an **author**. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Despite its limited use, its single appearance is theologically crucial as it identifies Jesus Christ as the definitive source of salvation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of `{{G159}}` is in [[Hebrews 5:9]], which states, "And{G2532} being made perfect{G5048}, he became{G1096} the **author**{G159} of eternal{G166} salvation{G4991} unto all{G3956} them that obey{G5219} him{G846};". In this context, the word establishes that Christ, as a result of His perfection through suffering, is the originator of the permanent rescue available to believers. His role as the **author** is the direct outcome of His completed work.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Hebrews 5:9]] help clarify the meaning of `{{G159}}`:
* `{{G5048}}` **teleióō** (to make perfect): This word describes the process Christ completed to become the **author**. His strength being "made perfect in weakness" [[2 Corinthians 12:9]] shows that His consecration qualified Him for this role.
* `{{G4991}}` **sōtēría** (salvation): This is the specific result of which Christ is the **author**. The term signifies a rescue or safety, and the scriptures affirm there is **salvation** in no other name [[Acts 4:12]].
* `{{G166}}` **aiṓnios** (eternal): This adjective defines the nature of the salvation that Christ authors. It is perpetual and everlasting, a promise directly linked to belief in Him [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G5219}}` **hypakoúō** (to obey): This term identifies the recipients of the work Christ authored. The salvation is for those who **obey** Him, a principle extending to figures like Abraham, who **obeyed** God's call [[Hebrews 11:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G159}}` is concentrated in its single use, establishing several key doctrines:
* **Christ as the Originator:** `{{G159}}` pinpoints Christ as the singular "causer" of salvation. He is not merely a guide but the very source from which this rescue flows [[Hebrews 5:9]].
* **Perfection as the Foundation:** His authorship is explicitly tied to His being "made perfect" `{{G5048}}`. This indicates that His finished work is the foundation for His authority to grant salvation [[Hebrews 5:9]].
* **The Nature of His Work:** Christ is the author of **eternal** `{{G166}}` **salvation** `{{G4991}}`. The product of His action is a perpetual rescue, not a temporary reprieve [[Hebrews 5:9]].
* **The Role of Obedience:** The salvation He authors is directed "unto all them that obey him" `{{G5219}}`, linking the availability of His work to the active, obedient response of believers.
### Summary
In summary, **aítios** `{{G159}}` is a precise and powerful term. Its placement in [[Hebrews 5:9]] defines Christ's role with ultimate clarity: He is the **author**—the direct cause—of eternal salvation. This status is presented as the result of His being "made perfect," and the salvation He originates is made accessible to all who obey Him. The word therefore serves as a theological anchor, establishing Christ as the exclusive and sufficient source for humanity's deliverance.
TRV