### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eleēmosýnē**, represented by `{{G1654}}`, is defined as compassionateness, beneficence, or a benefaction, and is derived from the word for compassion (ἔλεος). It is most often translated as **alms** or **almsdeeds**. This term appears 14 times across 14 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting its role as a specific expression of charity and piety.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1654}}` is presented with careful instruction regarding its practice and motivation. Jesus warns believers to take heed and not perform their **alms** before men to be seen by them, as this forfeits any reward from the Father in heaven [[Matthew 6:1]]. Instead, the act should be done in secret, so that the Father who sees in secret will provide a reward [[Matthew 6:4]]. The giving of **alms** is also portrayed as a mark of a devout life, as seen in Cornelius, who "gave much **alms** to the people, and prayed to God alway" [[Acts 10:2]], and Tabitha, who was known for her "good works and **almsdeeds**" [[Acts 9:36]]. For the lame man at the temple gate, asking for **alms** was a daily practice for survival [[Acts 3:2-3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and nature of giving **alms**:
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This verb is frequently used to command the action of giving **alms**, such as in the instruction to "**give** alms of such things as ye have" [[Luke 11:41]] and to "sell that ye have, and **give** alms" [[Luke 12:33]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This word emphasizes that **alms** are an action to be performed or a deed to be done. It appears in phrases like "when thou **doest** thine alms" [[Matthew 6:2]] and describes the **almsdeeds** which Tabitha "did" [[Acts 9:36]].
* `{{G4335}}` **proseuchḗ** (prayer): The giving of **alms** is often spiritually linked with **prayer**. In the case of Cornelius, an angel states, "Thy **prayers** and thine **alms** are come up for a memorial before God" [[Acts 10:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1654}}` is centered on the heart and motive behind the act of giving.
* **Motive Determines Reward:** The teachings in Matthew 6 establish a clear distinction between giving **alms** for human praise, which has an earthly **reward** `{{G3408}}`, and giving in secret as an act of devotion to the **Father** `{{G3962}}`, which He rewards [[Matthew 6:1-4]].
* **A Memorial Before God:** An act of **alms** is not a forgotten deed. For Cornelius, his consistent giving was recognized in heaven, ascending "for a **memorial** `{{G3422}}` before **God** `{{G2316}}`" [[Acts 10:4]], signifying divine awareness and approval.
* **Evidence of a Devout Life:** The practice is presented as an outward sign of inner piety. Cornelius is first described as a **devout** `{{G2152}}` man who feared God, with his giving of **alms** being a primary example of his character [[Acts 10:2]]. Similarly, Tabitha's identity as a disciple was demonstrated by her life full of good **works** `{{G2041}}` and **almsdeeds** [[Acts 9:36]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1654}}` represents far more than simple material charity. It is a specific act of compassion that is meant to be an expression of righteousness and devotion to God. Scripture places heavy emphasis on the motivation behind giving **alms**, teaching that its spiritual value is found not in public recognition but in a sincere heart before the Father. When performed correctly, these acts serve as a lasting memorial before God and are a hallmark of a genuinely devout life.
TRV