### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **charízomai**, represented by `{{G5483}}`, means **to grant as a favor, i.e. gratuitously, in kindness, pardon or rescue**. It appears 24 times across 19 unique verses in the Bible. This term is derived from χάρις (grace) and carries the core idea of giving something freely and generously, without expectation of return. It encompasses actions ranging from pardoning a debt to granting a gift or delivering someone from a difficult situation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5483}}` is used to describe several aspects of gracious giving and forgiveness. A primary context is the believer's obligation to forgive others, which is modeled on divine forgiveness. Believers are called to be "forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you" [[Ephesians 4:32]] and as "Christ forgave you" [[Colossians 3:13]]. The term also describes God's actions as the ultimate giver. God is the one who has "freely given to us" all things through the Spirit [[1 Corinthians 2:12]], and based on the sacrifice of His Son, He will "freely give us all things" [[Romans 8:32]]. In a different context, it can mean to grant or deliver, such as when Paul states that no man may "deliver" him to his accusers [[Acts 25:11]] or when the crowd "desired a murderer to be granted unto" them [[Acts 3:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of granting favor and forgiveness:
* `{{G2155}}` **eúsplanchnos** (well compassioned, i.e. sympathetic): This word is used alongside `{{G5483}}` to describe the inner disposition required for forgiveness, urging believers to be "tenderhearted, forgiving one another" [[Ephesians 4:32]].
* `{{G430}}` **anéchomai** (to hold oneself up against, i.e. (figuratively) put up with): This term describes the act of forbearance that often precedes forgiveness. It is presented as a parallel action in the command for "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another" [[Colossians 3:13]].
* `{{G5339}}` **pheídomai** (to be chary of, i.e. ...to treat leniently): This word is contrasted with God's ultimate act of giving. Because God "spared not his own Son," He is now able to "freely give" `{{G5483}}` all things to believers [[Romans 8:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5483}}` is significant, anchoring the concept of giving in the nature of God's grace.
* **Grace-Based Forgiveness:** The word's connection to grace underscores that forgiveness, both divine and human, is not earned but is a favor freely granted. The command to forgive is explicitly based on the pattern of how God "hath forgiven" believers through Christ ([[Ephesians 4:32]], [[Colossians 3:13]]).
* **The Generosity of God:** `{{G5483}}` repeatedly portrays God as a lavish giver. He gives a name above every name to Christ [[Philippians 2:9]], freely gives believers all things [[Romans 8:32]], and even "gave" the inheritance to Abraham by promise [[Galatians 3:18]].
* **The Cost of a Free Gift:** The concept of a "free gift" is deepened by its connection to sacrifice. God's ability to "freely give" all things is predicated on the fact that He "spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all" [[Romans 8:32]]. Even suffering for Christ is framed as something graciously "given" to believers [[Philippians 1:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5483}}` is a vital term that moves beyond simple giving to describe acts rooted in grace and favor. It defines the Christian's duty to pardon others based on the unmerited forgiveness received from God. The word illustrates the nature of God as one who gives generously and gratuitously, from granting salvation and all spiritual blessings to delivering his people. Ultimately, **charízomai** demonstrates how the most profound gifts of God, though freely given, are made possible by the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.
TRV