### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Hēlías**, represented by `{{G2243}}`, refers to **Helias (i.e. Elijah), an Israelite**. It appears **30 times** across **30 unique verses** in the Bible. This name signifies the great Old Testament prophet, whose return was anticipated, and his presence in the New Testament narrative underscores themes of prophetic power, restoration, and fulfillment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2243}}` appears in several significant events. He is seen with **Moses** `{{G3475}}` talking with Jesus during the transfiguration ([[Matthew 17:3]], [[Mark 9:4]]). This event prompts Peter `{{G4074}}` to suggest making three **tabernacles** `{{G4633}}`: one for Jesus, one for Moses `{{G3475}}`, and one for **Elias** `{{G2243}}` ([[Matthew 17:4]], [[Luke 9:33]]). The identity of **Elias** `{{G2243}}` is also a point of speculation; some people wonder if Jesus is **Elias** `{{G2243}}` ([[Mark 6:15]], [[Matthew 16:14]]), while John `{{G2491}}` is directly asked, "Art thou **Elias**?" and he denies it [[John 1:21]]. Jesus clarifies that John came in the spirit `{{G4151}}` and power `{{G1411}}` of **Elias** `{{G2243}}` [[Luke 1:17]] and that he is the **Elias** `{{G2243}}` who was to come `{{G2064}}` [[Matthew 11:14]]. During the crucifixion, onlookers mistakenly believe Jesus is calling for **Elias** `{{G2243}}` and wait to see if he will come `{{G2064}}` to save `{{G4982}}` him ([[Matthew 27:49]], [[Mark 15:35]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words highlight the context surrounding `{{G2243}}`:
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs** (prophet): **Elias** `{{G2243}}` is consistently identified as a **prophet** `{{G4396}}`. When people were asked about Jesus's identity, some suggested he was **Elias** `{{G2243}}`, while others said he was one of the **prophets** `{{G4396}}` ([[Mark 8:28]], [[Luke 9:19]]).
* `{{G3475}}` **Mōseús** (Moses): The figure of **Moses** `{{G3475}}` often appears alongside **Elias** `{{G2243}}`, most notably at the transfiguration, where they are seen **talking** `{{G4814}}` with Jesus ([[Mark 9:4]], [[Luke 9:30]]).
* `{{G1163}}` **deî** (must): This word expresses the divine necessity of the return of **Elias** `{{G2243}}`. The disciples `{{G3101}}` ask the **scribes** `{{G1122}}` why they say **Elias** `{{G2243}}` **must** come `{{G2064}}` first ([[Mark 9:11]], [[Matthew 17:10]]).
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): The act of coming is central to the prophecies about **Elias** `{{G2243}}`. Jesus states that **Elias** `{{G2243}}` has **come** already [[Matthew 17:12]] and was prophesied **to come** [[Matthew 11:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2243}}` is demonstrated through several key themes:
* **Prophetic Forerunner:** The coming of **Elias** `{{G2243}}` is established as a necessary prelude. Jesus confirms the teaching that **Elias** `{{G2243}}` truly shall first **come** `{{G2064}}` and **restore** `{{G600}}` all things [[Matthew 17:11]]. John the Baptist is presented as fulfilling this role, going before the Lord in the **spirit** `{{G4151}}` and **power** `{{G1411}}` of **Elias** `{{G2243}}` [[Luke 1:17]].
* **Miraculous Authority:** The name **Elias** `{{G2243}}` is synonymous with great power. He was a **man** `{{G444}}` of like passions, and he **prayed** `{{G4336}}` earnestly that it might not **rain** `{{G1026}}`, and it did not for three years and six months [[James 5:17]]. His disciples `{{G3101}}` recalled this power, asking to command **fire** `{{G4442}}` from heaven to **consume** `{{G355}}` others, as **Elias** `{{G2243}}` did [[Luke 9:54]].
* **Witness to Christ:** **Elias** `{{G2243}}` appears with **Moses** `{{G3475}}` at the transfiguration, serving as a witness from the Old Testament prophets to the authority of Jesus [[Matthew 17:3]]. His presence links Jesus's ministry directly to the prophetic history of **Israel** `{{G2474}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2243}}` **Hēlías** is more than a historical name; it is a symbol of prophetic authority and fulfillment within the New Testament. The figure connects the ministry of John the Baptist and the identity of Jesus to Old Testament prophecy. From his association with divine **power** `{{G1411}}` over nature to his role as the foretold restorer, **Elias** `{{G2243}}` serves as a crucial link that validates and illuminates the unfolding plan of God.
TRV