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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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