### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eleḗmōn**, represented by `{{G1655}}`, is a term for being **merciful**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Deriving from the verb ἐλεέω, it describes someone who is actively compassionate.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1655}}` is used to highlight a key characteristic for both believers and Christ. It is presented as a trait of the blessed in the Beatitudes, with the promise that the **merciful** will receive mercy in return [[Matthew 5:7]]. The term is also used to describe Jesus Christ in his role as the high priest, where being **merciful** was essential for him to make reconciliation for the sins of the people [[Hebrews 2:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of active compassion:
* `{{G1653}}` **eleéō** (to compassionate): As the root verb, this signifies the action of showing mercy. It is what the merciful `{{G1655}}` are promised to receive [[Matthew 5:7]] and is what people ask of Jesus [[Matthew 9:27]].
* `{{G3107}}` **makários** (supremely blest): This word describes the state of those who are merciful. It is the opening declaration for each of the Beatitudes, including the promise to the peacemakers [[Matthew 5:9]] and those who mourn [[Matthew 5:4]].
* `{{G4103}}` **pistós** (trustworthy; trustful): This is paired directly with merciful to describe Christ as a high priest [[Hebrews 2:17]]. It points to the reliable and true nature of God [[1 Corinthians 1:9]] and Christ [[Revelation 1:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1655}}` is focused on the character of both God's people and Christ himself.
* **A Condition of Blessing:** Being **merciful** is presented as a core trait for those who are "blessed" by God. The promise attached is reciprocal: those who show mercy will, in turn, obtain mercy [[Matthew 5:7]].
* **A Priestly Qualification:** The term is critical to understanding the nature of Christ's work. For Jesus to serve as a high priest capable of making reconciliation for sin, it was necessary for him to be **merciful**, a quality he shared with the "brethren" he came to save [[Hebrews 2:17]].
* **Paired with Faithfulness:** In its application to Christ, **merciful** is directly linked with "faithful" `{{G4103}}`. This pairing suggests that true mercy is not arbitrary but is rooted in a trustworthy and consistent character, essential for the work of reconciliation [[Hebrews 2:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1655}}` **eleḗmōn**, though rare, is a potent theological term. It is more than a simple adjective; it defines a core characteristic required of the blessed and a necessary attribute for Christ's priestly work of reconciliation. It illustrates how a single quality connects the expected conduct of believers [[Matthew 5:7]] with the essential nature of the Savior [[Hebrews 2:17]], linking human action to divine purpose.
TRV