middle voice from the same as ἵλεως; to conciliate, i.e. (transitively) to atone for (sin), or (intransitively) be propitious:--be merciful, make reconciliation for.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hiláskomai**, represented by `{{G2433}}`, means to conciliate, atone for sin, or be propitious. It is a rare but significant term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning encompasses both the act of seeking mercy and the act of providing atonement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G2433}}` illustrates two sides of reconciliation. First, it is used as a plea for mercy by a repentant individual. The **publican** `{{G5057}}`, **standing** `{{G2476}}` afar off, asks **God** `{{G2316}}` to "**be merciful**" to him, a **sinner** `{{G268}}` [[Luke 18:13]]. Second, it describes the priestly work of Christ, who as a **merciful** `{{G1655}}` and **faithful** `{{G4103}}` **high priest** `{{G749}}`, was sent to "**make reconciliation for**" the **sins** `{{G266}}` of the **people** `{{G2992}}` [[Hebrews 2:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of mercy and atonement:
* `{{G1655}}` **eleḗmōn** (merciful): Defined as compassionate, this word describes the character of the one who performs the reconciliation. Christ is a "**merciful** and faithful high priest" who can make reconciliation for sins [[Hebrews 2:17]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (sin): This is the abstract concept of sin that requires atonement. Christ's work as high priest is specifically "to make reconciliation for the **sins** of the people" [[Hebrews 2:17]].
* `{{G268}}` **hamartōlós** (sinner): This refers to the individual in a state of sin. The publican identifies himself as a **sinner** when he cries out for God to be merciful [[Luke 18:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2433}}` is demonstrated in its two distinct applications:
* **The Human Plea for Propitiation:** The word captures the posture of a repentant heart. The publican does not offer a sacrifice but simply pleads for God to "**be merciful**," acknowledging his status as a **sinner** `{{G268}}` who is unworthy to even **lift up** `{{G1869}}` his **eyes** `{{G3788}}` to **heaven** `{{G3772}}` [[Luke 18:13]].
* **The Divine Act of Atonement:** The term defines the core purpose of Christ's high priestly ministry. He was made like his **brethren** `{{G80}}` in **all things** `{{G3956}}` so that he could actively "**make reconciliation for**" the **sins** `{{G266}}` of the people, acting as the agent of God's mercy [[Hebrews 2:17]].
* **Reconciliation's Two Sides:** Together, the uses of `{{G2433}}` connect the human cry for mercy with the divine answer of atonement. It shows that the reconciliation sought by the **sinner** `{{G268}}` is accomplished through the work of the **high priest** `{{G749}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2433}}` is a crucial theological term that bridges the gap between human sinfulness and divine mercy. Though used only twice, it powerfully conveys both the humble plea for God to be propitious and the ultimate atoning work of Christ as the **faithful** `{{G4103}}` **high priest** `{{G749}}`. It illustrates the direct relationship between the need for forgiveness and the provision of it.
TRV