### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hēmithanḗs**, represented by `{{G2253}}`, describes a state of being **half dead**. It appears just **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in scripture. The term literally means **half dead**, or as an implication, entirely exhausted, capturing a moment of extreme vulnerability and helplessness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G2253}}` occurs in a parable told by **Jesus** `{{G2424}}`. A certain **man** `{{G444}}` traveling from **Jerusalem** `{{G2419}}` to **Jericho** `{{G2410}}` **fell among** `{{G4045}}` thieves `{{G3027}}`. These robbers **stripped** `{{G1562}}` and **wounded** `{{G4127}}` him, then **departed** `{{G565}}`, **leaving** `{{G863}}` him **half dead** [[Luke 10:30]]. The word powerfully illustrates the man's critical and abandoned condition after the violent attack.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the same passage clarify the circumstances leading to this state:
* `{{G4045}}` **peripíptō** (to fall into something that is all around, i.e. light among or upon, be surrounded with): This describes how the man **fell among** robbers, highlighting the sudden and overwhelming nature of the attack [[Luke 10:30]].
* `{{G3027}}` **lēistḗs** (a brigand): This word identifies the attackers as **thieves** or robbers [[Luke 10:30]]. The term is also used to describe the two men crucified with Jesus [[Matthew 27:38]].
* `{{G1562}}` **ekdýō** (to divest): This describes the act of being **stripped**, a term used for the traveler [[Luke 10:30]] and for Jesus before his crucifixion [[Matthew 27:28]].
* `{{G4127}}` **plēgḗ** (a stroke; by implication, a wound): This specifies the physical violence inflicted. The man received **wounds** that left him in a critical state [[Luke 10:30]]. This term can also refer to calamities or plagues [[Revelation 22:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2253}}` is derived from its dramatic context and the associated actions.
* **A State of Helplessness:** Being **half dead** represents a condition of utter incapacitation. The man is left completely vulnerable after being attacked by **thieves** `{{G3027}}`, unable to help himself [[Luke 10:30]].
* **Echoes of the Passion:** The details surrounding the man's state parallel the suffering of Christ. The traveler was **stripped** `{{G1562}}` by his attackers [[Luke 10:30]], just as Jesus was **stripped** by soldiers [[Matthew 27:28]].
* **The Journey Downward:** The man's journey is a literal descent, as he **went down** `{{G2597}}` from **Jerusalem** `{{G2419}}` to **Jericho** `{{G2410}}`. This physical descent mirrors his fall into a state of being **half dead**, moving from God's holy city toward a place of worldly conflict.
### Summary
In summary, **hēmithanḗs** `{{G2253}}`, while used only once, provides a potent image of extreme suffering and helplessness. It describes a man who is not only physically attacked but left in a state between life and death. The context of the assault, with its parallels to the stripping of Christ, elevates the term beyond a simple description of injury. It underscores a state of profound desperation on a perilous journey, making the man's condition a poignant symbol of human vulnerability.
TRV