Ἐλισσαῖος

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word Elissaîos, represented by G1666, is a proper name of Hebrew origin identifying Elissæus, an Israelite. It appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible, referring to a specific individual in the history of Israel.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single biblical occurrence of G1666 is in a narrative that highlights a specific moment in Israel's history. In Luke 4:27, it is noted that there were many lepers in Israel during the time of Eliseus the prophet. The verse uses this historical fact to make a point, stating that despite the number of lepers, "none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian" Luke 4:27. This places Eliseus in the context of a significant prophetic ministry.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for the identity and role of Elissaîos:

• G2474 Israḗl (Israel): This is the nation where Eliseus ministered, as he was "in Israel" during the events described Luke 4:27. The term refers to the descendants of Jacob and is used to identify God's chosen people, the "house of Israel" Hebrews 8:8.
• G4396 prophḗtēs (prophet): Eliseus is explicitly given this title, identifying him as "the prophet" Luke 4:27. A prophet is defined as a foreteller or an inspired speaker, and the term is used to describe those who wrote scripture John 1:45 and hold specific, divinely appointed roles Ephesians 4:11.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G1666 is derived entirely from its singular mention, which serves as an important illustration.

• Prophetic Ministry in Israel: The name is tied to the office of a prophet G4396 ministering within the nation of Israel G2474. His presence establishes a key historical and spiritual setting for the events referenced in scripture.
• A Sign of Divine Action: The story associated with Eliseus in Luke 4:27 is used to exemplify a specific type of divine intervention, where a non-Israelite was the recipient of a miraculous cleansing when many in Israel were not.

Summary

In summary, G1666 Elissaîos is the name of a significant prophet in Israel's history. Though mentioned only once in the text, its appearance in Luke 4:27 is pivotal, serving as a reference point for a specific prophetic era. The context of this single verse provides its full significance, anchoring the name to a narrative about God's work both within and outside the nation of Israel.