### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hamartía**, represented by `{{G266}}`, is a central term for **sin**. It appears 175 times across 151 unique verses. Derived from `{{G264}}` **hamartánō**, which means "to miss the mark," **hamartía** defines an offense or a sinful act in the abstract. It encapsulates the concept of erring or deviating from a standard of righteousness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G266}}` is used to describe the fundamental human condition and its consequences. It is presented as a universal force that entered the world through one man, resulting in death [[Romans 5:12]]. The gravity of **sin** is underscored by the statement that its "wages" are death [[Romans 6:23]]. The term is not only used to define this state but also to point toward its remedy. John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the "Lamb of God, which taketh away the **sin** of the world" [[John 1:29]], and it is explained that Christ was made to be **sin** for believers so they could become the righteousness of God [[2 Corinthians 5:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help clarify the full scope of `{{G266}}`:
* `{{G264}}` **hamartánō** (to sin): As the verb form from which **hamartía** is derived, it means "to miss the mark" or "to err." It describes the act of sinning, as in, "if any man **sin**, we have an advocate with the Father" [[1 John 2:1]].
* `{{G458}}` **anomía** (iniquity, transgression of the law): This term defines sin as a "violation of law." It is used to give a precise legal definition of **sin** in [[1 John 3:4]], which states that "**sin** is the transgression of the law."
* `{{G1343}}` **dikaiosýnē** (righteousness): This word stands in direct contrast to **sin**, representing "equity" or "justification." Its relationship to **sin** is powerfully illustrated in [[2 Corinthians 5:21]], where Christ, who knew no **sin**, was made **sin** for us so that we might become the **righteousness** of God.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G266}}` is foundational to understanding the gospel.
* **The State of Humanity:** Scripture uses **hamartía** to establish that humanity is universally affected by **sin**. The law brings the "knowledge of **sin**" [[Romans 3:20]], and scripture "hath concluded all under **sin**" [[Galatians 3:22]], making redemption necessary for all.
* **The Atonement of Christ:** The solution to the problem of **sin** is central to the work of Christ. He came to "save his people from their **sins**" [[Matthew 1:21]] and "bare our **sins** in his own body on the tree" [[1 Peter 2:24]]. His sacrifice is presented as the "propitiation for our **sins**" [[1 John 4:10]].
* **The Path to Forgiveness:** The concept of **sin** is directly linked to the need for forgiveness. The preaching of the gospel includes a call for "repentance and remission of **sins**" [[Luke 24:47]]. Forgiveness is offered through Christ's blood [[Colossians 1:14]], and believers are assured that if they confess their **sins**, God is faithful to forgive and "to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" [[1 John 1:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G266}}` is far more than a simple word for a misdeed. It is a cornerstone biblical doctrine that defines humanity's separation from God and the profound reality of our fallen state. The concept of **hamartía** establishes the framework for salvation, illustrating why the law of **sin** leads to death [[Romans 8:2]] and why a remedy was required. Ultimately, the entire biblical narrative of redemption, from Christ's sacrifice to the forgiveness offered to believers, is a direct response to the problem of **sin**.
TRV