### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term ἐλοΐ (G1682), transliterated as *eloΐ*, is a direct transliteration of the Aramaic phrase *’elāhī*, meaning "my God." As indicated by its base definition, it derives from the Aramaic noun אֱלָהּ (*’elāh*) `{{H426}}`, which is the Aramaic equivalent of the Hebrew אֵל (*’ēl*) `{{H410}}` or אֱלֹהִים (*’ĕlōhîm*) `{{H430}}`, combined with the first-person singular pronominal suffix. This suffix (-*i* or -*ī*) denotes possession, making the phrase a personal and direct address. The semantic range of ἐλοΐ is therefore quite narrow, specifically functioning as an intimate, possessive invocation of the divine. It conveys a deep, personal relationship, even in moments of extreme distress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐλοΐ appears only once in the New Testament, found exclusively in the Gospel of Mark:
* [[Mark 15:34]]: "And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"
This sole occurrence is profoundly significant, representing Jesus' cry from the cross. It is a direct quotation from [[Psalm 22:1]], which in the Hebrew Masoretic Text reads אֵלִי אֵלִי לָמָה עֲזַבְתָּנִי (*’ēlî ’ēlî lāmāh ‘ăzabtānî*). Mark's use of the Aramaic ἐλοΐ rather than the Hebrew ἐλὶ (as found in [[Matthew 27:46]]) suggests either a specific emphasis on the common language spoken in Judea during Jesus' time or perhaps reflects the particular Aramaic tradition known to Mark's source or audience. The context is one of ultimate suffering and perceived abandonment, as Jesus, bearing the sins of humanity, experiences a unique separation from the Father. This cry is not a statement of doubt in God's existence or power, but rather an expression of the profound anguish and the unfathomable cost of atonement.
### Related Words & Concepts
ἐλοΐ is intrinsically linked to the broader biblical vocabulary for God. Its Aramaic root אֱלָהּ `{{H426}}` is cognate with the Hebrew terms אֵל `{{H410}}` (El), signifying "God" or "mighty one," and אֱלֹהִים `{{H430}}` (Elohim), the plural form often used as a singular for the one true God, emphasizing His majesty and power. In the Greek New Testament, the most common word for God is θεός (*theos*) `{{G2316}}`. The "my" element in ἐλοΐ relates to the concept of covenant relationship and personal devotion, as seen throughout the Old Testament where individuals address God as "my God" (e.g., [[Psalm 3:7]]; [[Psalm 18:2]]). The cry of ἐλοΐ also connects to the theological concepts of divine abandonment, vicarious suffering, and the fulfillment of prophecy, particularly the Messianic implications of [[Psalm 22]].
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of ἐλοΐ on the lips of Jesus from the cross carries immense theological weight.
1. **Jesus' Humanity:** The use of ἐλοΐ underscores Jesus' full humanity. He cries out in the common language of His people, expressing genuine human anguish and a sense of desolation. This is not a divine pronouncement but a human cry from the depths of suffering.
2. **Vicarious Atonement:** This cry is central to understanding the doctrine of atonement. As Jesus takes upon Himself the sins of the world, He experiences the separation from God that humanity's sin deserves. The "why hast thou forsaken me?" is not a question of God's faithfulness, but a profound expression of the cosmic consequence of sin, which temporarily severed the intimacy of the Father-Son relationship for the purpose of redemption.
3. **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** By quoting [[Psalm 22:1]], Jesus identifies Himself with the suffering servant prophesied in the Old Testament. This act confirms His messianic identity and demonstrates that His suffering was not random but part of God's sovereign plan of salvation.
4. **Mystery of the Trinity:** Even in this cry of apparent abandonment, the "my God" retains the relational aspect of the Son to the Father. It highlights the profound mystery of the Trinity, where the Son, while fully God, experiences the ultimate consequence of sin on behalf of humanity, enduring the divine wrath that brings about reconciliation.
### Summary
ἐλοΐ (G1682) is the Aramaic "my God," appearing uniquely in [[Mark 15:34]] as part of Jesus' cry from the cross. This deeply personal invocation underscores Jesus' profound human suffering and His experience of vicarious abandonment as He bore the sins of the world. It simultaneously fulfills Old Testament prophecy from [[Psalm 22:1]] and reveals the unfathomable cost of atonement, highlighting the depth of the Father-Son relationship even in the midst of cosmic anguish. The term stands as a poignant reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made for humanity's redemption.
TRV