### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hilasmós**, represented by `{{G2434}}`, is used to define the concept of **propitiation**. Though it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its theological significance is immense, describing the atoning work of God's Son for human sin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2434}}` is directly linked to the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is presented as an act initiated by God out of His love for humanity. The word clarifies that Jesus himself *is* the **propitiation** for our sins [[1 John 2:2]]. Furthermore, this act is not a result of human merit or love toward God, but rather a demonstration of God's love for us, in that He sent His **Son** to be the **propitiation** for our sins [[1 John 4:10]]. This propitiation is not limited in scope, as it is available "for the sins of the whole world" [[1 John 2:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context of `{{G2434}}`:
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): This word defines the problem that **propitiation** resolves. Both occurrences of `{{G2434}}` explicitly state it is "for our **sins**" [[1 John 4:10]]. Scripture teaches that the wages of **sin** is death [[Romans 6:23]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love): This is the motivation behind the act of propitiation. The Bible emphasizes that God's action was not a response to our love for him, but a result of his own **love** for us [[1 John 4:10]].
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (a "son"): This identifies the agent of propitiation. God sent his **Son** to be the propitiation, an act rooted in the Father's love ([[1 John 4:10]]; [[John 3:16]]).
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (a deity): This identifies the ultimate source of the propitiation. It is **God** who loved the world, sent His Son, and provided the means to deal with sin ([[John 3:16]]; [[1 John 4:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2434}}` is centered on the nature of salvation.
* **An Act of Divine Love:** The concept of **propitiation** is rooted in God's **love** `{{G26}}` and initiative. It is a gift given because "he loved us, and sent his Son" [[1 John 4:10]], not something humanity earned.
* **Christ as the Means:** Jesus is not merely a messenger but is the **propitiation** itself. He is the one who remedies the problem of **sin** `{{G266}}`, as stated in [[1 John 2:2]].
* **Universal Provision:** The propitiation made by the **Son** `{{G5207}}` is sufficient for all, extending beyond a single group to address the "sins of the whole world" [[1 John 2:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2434}}` is a precise and powerful term. Though used infrequently, it encapsulates a core doctrine: that God, motivated by His own **love**, sent His **Son** as the definitive and all-sufficient answer to human **sin**. It highlights a divine solution to a human problem, establishing the foundation for forgiveness and relationship with God.
TRV