### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb **heptákis**, represented by `{{G2034}}`, means **seven times**. It is derived from the word for seven, ἑπτά. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage specifies a definite number of repetitions for an action, particularly in the context of forgiveness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2034}}` is used exclusively in discussions about the limits of forgiveness. Peter asks the Lord **how oft** he should forgive his brother, proposing "till **seven times**?" [[Matthew 18:21]]. Jesus uses the term to reject this limited number, setting a much higher standard by replying not "**seven times**: but, Until seventy times seven" [[Matthew 18:22]]. A parallel teaching in Luke emphasizes this call to repeated mercy, stating that if a brother trespasses "**seven times** in a day" and repents each time, he must be forgiven [[Luke 17:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of `{{G2034}}`:
* `{{G2033}}` **heptá** (seven): This is the primary number from which **heptákis** is derived. It signifies the number seven itself and is used widely, as in the **seven** churches or the **seven** Spirits of God ([[Revelation 1:4]], [[Revelation 3:1]]).
* `{{G1441}}` **hebdomēkontákis** (seventy times): This adverb is used in direct contrast to `{{G2034}}` in Jesus's teaching on forgiveness, expanding the number from seven times to **seventy times** seven [[Matthew 18:22]].
* `{{G4212}}` **posákis** (how oft(-en)): This interrogative adverb is used to ask "how many times." Peter uses this word when he asks, "**how oft** shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him?" before suggesting the limit of **seven times** [[Matthew 18:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2034}}` is found in its use as a benchmark for human-defined limits on grace.
* **A Proposed Limit on Forgiveness:** Peter's question, "...till **seven times**?" suggests an attempt to quantify mercy, setting a finite and measurable standard for how often one is required to forgive [[Matthew 18:21]].
* **The Rejection of Human Limits:** Jesus uses the phrase "**seven times**" only to immediately dismiss it as insufficient. His response, "Until seventy times seven," reframes forgiveness not as a countable act but as a continuous, boundless disposition [[Matthew 18:22]].
* **The Principle of Repeated Grace:** The usage in Luke, which specifies forgiving "**seven times** in a day," highlights that forgiveness should not be exhausted by repeated offenses, even within a short period [[Luke 17:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2034}}` **heptákis** is a specific adverb whose biblical significance is tied entirely to the doctrine of forgiveness. While its literal meaning is simply "**seven times**," it functions as a critical point in Jesus's teachings. It represents a humanly conceived, finite measure of mercy, which is then contrasted with a divine standard of inexhaustible grace. The word is used to dismantle the idea of keeping score in forgiveness, pushing believers toward a disposition of relentless mercy.
TRV