perhaps from Α (as a negative particle) and the base of μέρος; properly, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), i.e. (figuratively) to err, especially (morally) to sin:--for your faults, offend, sin, trespass.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hamartánō**, represented by `{{G264}}`, has the primary meaning "to miss the mark." It appears **48 times** across **37 unique verses** in the Bible. Figuratively, it is used to describe erring, and especially to morally **sin**. The term encompasses a range of actions, including committing faults, offending others, or trespassing against divine or human standards.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G264}}` is used to define the universal state of humanity, as "all have **sinned**, and come short of the glory of God" [[Romans 3:23]]. It is frequently used in commands urging believers to cease wrongdoing, such as "go, and **sin** no more" [[John 8:11]] and "Be ye angry, and **sin** not" [[Ephesians 4:26]]. The word also describes interpersonal offenses, as when a brother **trespasses** against another [[Matthew 18:15]]. This action can be directed not only at others but also against oneself, as "he that committeth fornication **sinneth** against his own body" [[1 Corinthians 6:18]]. Ultimately, to **sin** against the brethren is to **sin** against Christ [[1 Corinthians 8:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the concept of sin and its remedy:
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): This is the noun form derived from **hamartánō**. It describes the abstract concept of sin itself. In [[1 John 5:16]], both words are used to distinguish between **sinning** `{{G264}}` a **sin** `{{G266}}` that leads to death and one that does not.
* `{{G3900}}` **paráptōma** (a side-slip): This word refers to a lapse, fault, or trespass. It is used to describe the **trespasses** that we must forgive in others for our Father to forgive us [[Matthew 6:14]].
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (to repent): This term means to think differently or feel compunction. It is the required response to sin, as seen in the instruction to forgive a brother if he trespasses and then says, "I **repent**" [[Luke 17:4]].
* `{{G863}}` **aphíēmi** (to forgive): This word means to send away or remit. It is the action commanded in response to repentance, such as when Peter asks how often he should **forgive** his brother who sins against him [[Matthew 18:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G264}}` is profound, framing the core conflict of the human story.
* **Universal Condition:** The act of **sinning** establishes a universal condition that affects all humanity from the time of Adam ([[Romans 5:12]], [[Romans 5:14]]). Scripture states plainly that anyone who claims they have not **sinned** makes God a **liar** `{{G5583}}` [[1 John 1:10]].
* **A Provision for Sin:** While believers are commanded not to **sin**, scripture provides a remedy for when they do: "if any man **sin**, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the **righteous** `{{G1342}}`" [[1 John 2:1]].
* **The Nature of a Believer:** A theological tension exists between the reality that believers may **sin** [[1 John 2:1]] and the truth that "whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin" and "cannot **sin**" [[1 John 3:9]]. This highlights the believer's new identity and spiritual nature in Christ.
* **Wilful Sin:** The word is used to describe a particularly serious state, for "if we **sin** wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins" [[Hebrews 10:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G264}}` **hamartánō** is much more than a simple verb for a misdeed. It defines the foundational biblical problem of "missing the mark" of God's perfect standard. It describes a spectrum of offenses, from an interpersonal **trespass** to a fundamental state of rebellion against God. By understanding **hamartánō**, we grasp the gravity of sin and the corresponding necessity for the biblical solutions of repentance and forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ.
TRV