### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hamartōlós**, represented by `{{G268}}`, is a term for **sinful, i.e. a sinner**. It appears **47 times** across **45 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the verb for sinning, it directly identifies a person characterized by sin, often in contrast to those considered righteous.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G268}}` is frequently used to create a sharp distinction between social or spiritual classes. Religious leaders often use the term to condemn Jesus for associating with **publicans** and **sinners** ([[Matthew 9:11]], [[Luke 15:2]]). Jesus, in turn, reframes the term, stating his purpose is not to call the **righteous**, but **sinners** to **repentance** [[Matthew 9:13]]. The word also functions as a term of self-awareness and humility, as when the **publican** prays for mercy as "a **sinner**" [[Luke 18:13]] or when Simon Peter tells Jesus to depart from him, for he is a "**sinful** man" [[Luke 5:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and theological implications surrounding a **sinner**:
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): This is the abstract concept of an offense. The state of being a **sinner** is intrinsically linked to **sin** `{{G266}}`, whose wages are **death** `{{G2288}}` [[Romans 6:23]].
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (just, right(-eous)): This term is consistently used as the direct opposite of a **sinner**. Jesus' mission was to call **sinners**, not the **righteous** [[Matthew 9:13]], creating a clear distinction that highlights the need for salvation.
* `{{G3341}}` **metánoia** (repentance): This describes the necessary response for a **sinner**. Christ's call is not merely to identify **sinners**, but to lead them to **repentance** [[Luke 5:32]], which results in joy in heaven [[Luke 15:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G268}}` is profound, defining both the human problem and the divine solution.
* **The Focus of Christ's Mission:** The term is central to understanding Jesus' purpose. He declared that He came not to call the **righteous**, but **sinners** [[Matthew 9:13]], and that His mission was "to save **sinners**" [[1 Timothy 1:15]]. This reorients the term from a mark of permanent exclusion to the very qualification for receiving His call.
* **A Universal Human State:** The word describes the condition of humanity. Through one man's **disobedience** `{{G3876}}`, many were made **sinners** [[Romans 5:19]]. The apostle Paul illustrates this by identifying himself as the "chief" of **sinners** [[1 Timothy 1:15]], showing that all are in need of grace.
* **The Object of God's Love:** Identification as a **sinner** is the backdrop against which God's **love** `{{G26}}` is demonstrated. Scripture states that "while we were yet **sinners**, Christ died for us" [[Romans 5:8]], showcasing that salvation is a gift offered to the undeserving, not a reward for the righteous.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G268}}` is far more than an accusatory label. It is a critical biblical term that defines the target of Christ's redemptive mission. It shifts from being a word used for condemnation by religious authorities to a descriptor of the very people Jesus came to seek and **save** `{{G4982}}`. The concept of a **sinner** establishes the universal need for grace and forms the foundation for understanding the call to **repentance** and the justifying death of **Christ**.
TRV