### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term `{{G5547}}` (Christós) derives directly from the verb `{{G5548}}` (chriō), meaning "to anoint." Its fundamental meaning is "anointed one." This concept is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where individuals were ceremonially anointed with oil to consecrate them for specific divine service, particularly as prophets, priests, and kings. `{{G5547}}` serves as the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew `{{H4899}}` (mashiach), from which we get the English "Messiah."
While initially a descriptive title, "Christos" in the New Testament primarily refers to Jesus, identifying Him as the long-awaited Anointed One of God. Over time, particularly in the Pauline epistles, it transitions from being solely a title to functioning almost as a proper name, often appearing in the compound "Jesus Christ" or "Christ Jesus," highlighting His unique person and office. Its semantic range thus encompasses both the historical fulfillment of messianic prophecy and the theological reality of Jesus' divine appointment and redemptive work.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G5547}}` occurs over 500 times in the New Testament, demonstrating its profound significance.
* **Gospels:** In the Gospels, the term "Christ" is often used to inquire about or affirm Jesus' messianic identity. Peter's confession, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" ([[Matthew 16:16]]), is a pivotal moment, though Jesus often cautioned His disciples about openly proclaiming this title due to prevailing political expectations of a conquering Messiah. The narrative consistently portrays Jesus' life, ministry, death, and resurrection as the fulfillment of messianic prophecies (e.g., [[Luke 24:26]], [[Luke 24:46]]).
* **Acts:** The book of Acts showcases the apostles' bold proclamation of Jesus as the Christ. Peter declares on Pentecost that God has made Jesus "both Lord and Christ" ([[Acts 2:36]]). The early church's evangelistic message centered on the resurrection of Jesus as proof of His messianic claim and His ultimate authority (e.g., [[Acts 3:18]], [[Acts 9:22]]).
* **Pauline Epistles:** Paul's writings are replete with the term "Christ," often in the constructions "Jesus Christ" or "Christ Jesus." For Paul, "Christ" is more than a title; it represents a new corporate reality. Believers are "in Christ" ([[Romans 8:1]], [[2 Corinthians 5:17]]), signifying their spiritual union with Him in His death and resurrection. Paul emphasizes Christ's role as the head of the church ([[Ephesians 1:22-23]]), the one through whom reconciliation and redemption are accomplished ([[Colossians 1:19-20]]), and the very life of the believer ([[Philippians 1:21]]).
* **General Epistles & Revelation:** These books continue to affirm Jesus' identity as the Christ, emphasizing His atoning work ([[Hebrews 9:28]]), His suffering and glorification ([[1 Peter 1:11]]), and His ultimate victorious reign ([[Revelation 11:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H4899}}` (mashiach):** The direct Hebrew counterpart, "Messiah," meaning "anointed one." This is the foundational Old Testament concept that `{{G5547}}` translates and fulfills.
* **`{{G5548}}` (chriō):** The Greek verb "to anoint," from which `{{G5547}}` is derived. It signifies the act of consecration and setting apart by divine appointment.
* **`{{G5545}}` (chrisma):** "Anointing" (noun), often referring to the anointing of the Holy Spirit, which empowers believers and grants spiritual understanding (e.g., [[1 John 2:20]], [[1 John 2:27]]). This highlights the spiritual nature of Christ's anointing.
* **King, Prophet, Priest:** These are the three Old Testament offices traditionally associated with anointing. Jesus, as the Christ, uniquely fulfills all three: He is the ultimate King, the supreme Prophet who reveals God's truth, and the perfect High Priest who offers Himself as the final sacrifice.
* **Son of God:** Often paired with "Christ" to underscore Jesus' divine nature alongside His messianic office (e.g., [[Matthew 16:16]]).
* **Lord (`{{G2962}}` Kyrios):** Another profound title frequently used with "Christ" to denote Jesus' sovereign authority and divine status (e.g., [[Philippians 2:11]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5547}}` (Christós) is immense, forming the very bedrock of Christian theology.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** The designation of Jesus as "the Christ" unequivocally declares Him as the fulfillment of centuries of Old Testament messianic prophecies. He is the divinely appointed deliverer, the promised King from the line of David, and the one who inaugurates God's kingdom.
* **Unique Identity and Divine Appointment:** "Christ" is not merely a title but an affirmation of Jesus' unique person and mission. It signifies that He is God's chosen and anointed one, uniquely empowered by the Holy Spirit to accomplish salvation for humanity.
* **Centrality of Salvation:** The work of Christ—His life, death, resurrection, and ascension—is the central act of God's redemptive plan. Through Him, humanity is reconciled to God, sin is atoned for, and new life is made possible.
* **Union with Christ:** A profound Pauline theological concept, "in Christ" describes the believer's spiritual union with Jesus Christ. This union means participation in His death to sin, His resurrection to new life, and His present reign, leading to justification, sanctification, and eventual glorification.
* **Foundation of the Church:** The church is the body of Christ, with Christ as its head. Its mission is to proclaim the gospel of Christ and to live out the implications of being united with Him.
* **Cosmic Lordship:** As the Christ, Jesus holds ultimate authority not only over the church but over all creation. He is the one through whom all things were created and by whom all things are sustained and will ultimately be reconciled (e.g., [[Colossians 1:15-20]]).
### Summary
`{{G5547}}` (Christós), meaning "Anointed One," is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah." It signifies a person divinely chosen and consecrated for a special office. In the New Testament, it becomes the preeminent title for Jesus of Nazareth, identifying Him as the long-awaited fulfillment of Old Testament messianic prophecies. From a descriptive title, it evolves into a virtual proper name, "Jesus Christ," underscoring His unique identity and redemptive work. Theologically, `{{G5547}}` affirms Jesus' divine appointment as Prophet, Priest, and King, His central role in God's plan of salvation, and the profound spiritual union believers experience "in Christ." It encapsulates the essence of Christian faith: the belief in Jesus as the one true Anointed Savior and Lord.
TRV