### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Chaldee word **sabachtháni**, represented by `{{G4518}}`, is a specific "cry of distress" that means **thou hast left me**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 verses** in the Bible, both of which are direct quotations of Jesus from the cross. Its singular usage marks one of the most poignant moments in the Gospels.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two occurrences of `{{G4518}}` are found in the crucifixion narratives. In both Matthew and Mark, Jesus utters this cry "at the ninth hour" with a "loud" `{{G3173}}` "voice" `{{G5456}}`. Matthew's account records the full phrase as "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani" [[Matthew 27:46]], while Mark's account presents it as "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani" [[Mark 15:34]]. In both instances, the scripture immediately provides the interpretation for the reader: "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?", using the Greek word for "forsaken" `{{G1459}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context and meaning of this cry:
* `{{G1459}}` **enkataleípō** (to desert... forsake, leave): This is the Greek word used by the Gospel writers to translate the meaning of sabachtháni ([[Matthew 27:46]], [[Mark 15:34]]). Its meaning is further clarified in contexts where God promises not to forsake His people [[Hebrews 13:5]] or when individuals are forsaken by others [[2 Timothy 4:10]].
* `{{G2241}}` **ēlí** (my God): The form of address to God, from Hebrew, used in Matthew's account of the cry from the cross [[Matthew 27:46]].
* `{{G1682}}` **eloḯ** (my God): The Chaldean form of address to God, used in Mark's parallel account [[Mark 15:34]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (a deity... God): The Greek word used for "God" in the interpretation of the cry, linking the original Aramaic words to the concept of the supreme Divinity for the Greek-speaking audience ([[Matthew 27:46]], [[Mark 15:34]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4518}}` is centered on the concept of divine abandonment.
* **A Cry of Distress:** The word itself is defined as a "cry of distress," emphasizing the anguish of the moment. The fact that Jesus "cried" (`{{G310}}`, `{{G994}}`) this phrase highlights the extremity of His suffering.
* **The Experience of Being Forsaken:** The interpreted meaning, "thou hast forsaken me" `{{G1459}}`, points to a unique moment in which Jesus experiences separation from God the Father. This stands in stark contrast to the promise that God will never forsake His people [[Hebrews 13:5]] or His Holy One in hell [[Acts 2:27]].
* **A Direct Address to God:** Even in this moment of perceived abandonment, the cry is an address *to* God, using the intimate term "My God" (`{{G2241}}`, `{{G1682}}`). This shows that the cry is one of relationship, even amidst profound suffering.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4518}}` is not merely a foreign word but a recorded utterance of immense significance. It provides a window into the climax of Christ's suffering, expressing a feeling of being forsaken by God. By presenting the original Chaldee cry and then immediately translating it with the Greek word for "forsaken" `{{G1459}}`, the scriptures underscore the depth and reality of this moment of distress on the cross.
TRV