### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eleutheróō**, represented by `{{G1659}}`, means **to liberate** or **make free**. It appears 12 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. The term describes the act of liberation and, figuratively, exemption from moral, ceremonial, or mortal liability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1659}}` is used to describe a profound spiritual liberation. The Son grants a true freedom [[John 8:36]], which comes from knowing the **truth** `{{G225}}` [[John 8:32]]. This act of being "made free" is specifically attributed to Christ [[Galatians 5:1]] and the work of "the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus" [[Romans 8:2]]. This freedom is defined as liberation from specific forces: believers are **made free** from sin ([[Romans 6:18]], [[Romans 6:22]]) and from "the law of sin and death" [[Romans 8:2]]. The term is also used in a future sense, where creation itself will be **delivered** from "the bondage of corruption" [[Romans 8:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of spiritual freedom:
* `{{G1658}}` **eleútheros** (free): The root of `{{G1659}}`, this word describes the state of being unrestrained or not a slave. One who is made free `{{G1659}}` by the Son is described as being **free** `{{G1658}}` indeed [[John 8:36]].
* `{{G1657}}` **eleuthería** (liberty): This noun denotes the freedom that Christ provides. Believers are told to **stand fast** `{{G4739}}` in the **liberty** wherewith Christ has made them free [[Galatians 5:1]].
* `{{G1397}}` **douleía** (bondage): Representing the state from which one is liberated, this term for slavery or **bondage** is often contrasted with freedom. Believers are warned not to be entangled again with the **yoke** `{{G2218}}` of **bondage** [[Galatians 5:1]].
* `{{G1402}}` **doulóō** (to enslave): This verb describes the act of enslaving. Paradoxically, after being made free `{{G1659}}` from sin, believers **become servants** `{{G1402}}` to righteousness and God ([[Romans 6:18]], [[Romans 6:22]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1659}}` is central to the gospel's message of salvation.
* **Divine Liberation:** The act of being "made free" is not a human achievement but a divine act performed by Christ [[Galatians 5:1]] and the Son [[John 8:36]]. Freedom is a gift that originates from God.
* **Freedom from Sin and Death:** The primary state from which humanity is liberated is "sin" ([[Romans 6:18]], [[Romans 6:22]]) and "the law of sin and death" [[Romans 8:2]]. This liberation breaks the power of these spiritual forces over the believer.
* **Freedom for Service:** This freedom is not aimless. Being made free from sin leads directly to a new state of being: becoming "servants of **righteousness** `{{G1343}}`" [[Romans 6:18]] and "servants to God" [[Romans 6:22]]. True spiritual liberty is found in service to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1659}}` **eleutheróō** is a dynamic term that signifies more than simple exemption. It represents a foundational Christian doctrine: the divine act of liberating a believer from the bondage of sin and death. This freedom, granted through Christ, redefines a person's identity and purpose, transforming them from a slave to sin into a servant of God.
TRV