### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Ἀκελδαμά (Akeldamá), Strong's `{{G184}}`, is a transliteration of an Aramaic (or Chaldee) phrase meaning "field of blood." This proper noun is a direct rendering of two Semitic components: a word related to `{{H2506}}` (חֵלֶק, meaning "portion" or "field") and `{{H1818}}` (דָּם, meaning "blood"). As a specific place name, Akeldamá does not possess a semantic range in the typical sense; rather, its meaning is fixed by its etymology and historical context. The name itself, "field of blood," is profoundly descriptive and carries significant symbolic weight, immediately conveying its grim association with violent death and betrayal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Ἀκελδαμά (Akeldamá) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 1:19]]. This verse is part of Peter's address to the disciples following the ascension of Jesus, where he recounts the fate of Judas Iscariot. Peter explains that Judas, "having acquired a field with the reward of his wickedness, he fell headlong and burst open in the middle and all his intestines gushed out" [[Acts 1:18]]. The subsequent verse, [[Acts 1:19]], states, "And it became known to all who live in Jerusalem, so that that field was called in their own language Akeldamá, that is, 'Field of Blood.'"
The context reveals that the name was given by the inhabitants of Jerusalem, reflecting their understanding of the field's origin. It was purchased with the money Judas received for betraying Jesus, which he later returned to the chief priests. While the parallel account in [[Matthew 27:3-10]] describes the chief priests using the money to buy the potter's field as a burial place for strangers, the account in Acts emphasizes Judas's personal acquisition and the subsequent naming by the populace. Regardless of the precise transaction details, the name "Akeldamá" universally signifies the field's connection to the "price of blood" paid for Jesus' betrayal and the tragic end of Judas. It serves as a stark, public memorial to an act of profound treachery.
### Related Words & Concepts
The core components of Akeldamá are directly related to the Hebrew words `{{H2506}}` (חֵלֶק - field, portion) and `{{H1818}}` (דָּם - blood). The concept of "blood" (`{{H1818}}`) frequently appears in Scripture, often signifying life, atonement, or, as in this case, guilt and violent death. The phrase "field of blood" immediately evokes the idea of "blood money" – payment for a heinous act that results in bloodshed.
The narrative surrounding Akeldamá is intrinsically linked to the broader biblical themes of betrayal, divine justice, and the consequences of sin. It stands as a stark counterpart to concepts of sacred ground or land promised by God. Instead, it is land defiled by the "price of blood." The idea of a burial place for strangers also introduces a layer of ironic charity, as money gained through betrayal is used for a seemingly good, yet ultimately tainted, purpose. The parallel account in [[Matthew 27:3-10]] further connects the purchase of this field to prophetic fulfillment, specifically referencing [[Zechariah 11:12-13]] and [[Jeremiah 32:6-15]], emphasizing the divine hand in these events.
### Theological Significance
Akeldamá holds profound theological significance as a perpetual, tangible monument to the ultimate act of betrayal against the Son of God. Its name, "Field of Blood," serves as a grim and enduring reminder of the consequences of avarice and spiritual blindness. The very ground acquired through the "price of blood" becomes a place associated with death (a burial ground) and the horrific end of the betrayer. This reflects divine judgment; the money intended to condemn the innocent Jesus ultimately condemns the betrayer and purchases a plot of land forever marked by his sin.
The existence and naming of Akeldamá underscore the sanctity of innocent blood and the abhorrence of God for treachery. It stands as a warning to all who would betray their Lord or pursue earthly gain at the expense of spiritual integrity. The field's notoriety among the inhabitants of Jerusalem, as noted in [[Acts 1:19]], suggests that it became a recognized symbol of the tragic outcome of rejecting God's grace and succumbing to the power of sin. It is a stark reminder that actions have indelible consequences, not only for the individual but also in the collective memory and even the physical landscape.
### Summary
Ἀκελδαμά (Akeldamá), Strong's `{{G184}}`, is an Aramaic place name meaning "Field of Blood," found exclusively in [[Acts 1:19]]. It refers to a specific plot of land near Jerusalem, which gained its infamous name because it was purchased with the 30 pieces of silver—the "price of blood"—that Judas Iscariot received for betraying Jesus. This field became a burial ground for strangers and was forever marked by the treachery of Judas and his tragic demise. Theologically, Akeldamá serves as a powerful and enduring symbol of the dire consequences of sin, particularly betrayal, and a tangible testament to divine justice. It stands as a perpetual reminder of the cost of rejecting Christ and the indelible stain left by such an act.
TRV