Original Word: ἐλεήμων
Part of Speech: Adjective
Transliteration: eleémón
Pronunciation: el-eh-ay'-mone
Phonetic Spelling: (el-eh-ay'-mone)
Definition: full of pity, merciful, compassionate.
Meaning: The term ἐλεήμων is an adjective meaning "merciful" or "compassionate." It describes a disposition to show kindness or forgiveness, especially to those in distress or need.

Word Origin: Derived from the Greek root ἔλεος (eleos), meaning "mercy" or "compassion."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The Greek concept of ἐλεήμων is closely related to several Hebrew terms that convey mercy and compassion, including:

- חֶסֶד (chesed) • Strong's Hebrew 2617: Often translated as "lovingkindness" or "steadfast love," this term reflects God's covenantal mercy and faithfulness.
- רַחוּם (rachum) • Strong's Hebrew 7349: Meaning "compassionate" or "merciful," it describes God's tender mercy towards His people.
- רָחַם (racham) • Strong's Hebrew 7355: A verb meaning "to have compassion" or "to show mercy," often used to describe God's merciful actions.

These Hebrew terms provide a rich background for understanding the New Testament use of ἐλεήμων, highlighting the continuity of the theme of mercy throughout the biblical narrative.

Usage: The word ἐλεήμων is used in the New Testament to describe the character of individuals who exhibit mercy and compassion, reflecting the nature of God. It appears in contexts that emphasize the importance of mercy as a virtue to be cultivated by believers.

Context: The Greek term ἐλεήμων (eleēmōn) is a significant word in the New Testament, encapsulating the Christian virtue of mercy. It is used to describe the quality of being merciful, a trait that is highly esteemed in biblical teaching. This word appears in key passages that highlight the importance of mercy in the life of a believer.

In Matthew 5:7, part of the Beatitudes, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." Here, ἐλεήμων is used to describe those who actively show compassion and forgiveness to others, promising them divine mercy in return. This reflects the reciprocal nature of mercy in the Christian life, where showing mercy is both a command and a promise of receiving mercy from God.

The concept of mercy is deeply rooted in the character of God, as seen in Luke 6:36, where Jesus instructs, "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." This passage underscores the call for believers to emulate God's merciful nature, making ἐλεήμων not just an attribute but a reflection of divine character.

In Hebrews 2:17, Jesus is described as a "merciful and faithful high priest," highlighting His role in mediating between God and humanity with compassion and understanding. This usage of ἐλεήμων emphasizes the compassionate aspect of Christ's priesthood, offering believers a model of mercy that is both divine and attainable.

The virtue of mercy, as encapsulated by ἐλεήμων, is foundational to Christian ethics, encouraging believers to act with kindness, forgiveness, and compassion. It is a call to reflect God's mercy in interpersonal relationships and to embody the love and grace that are central to the gospel message.

Cognate: 1655 eleḗmōn – merciful, acting consistently with the revelation of God's covenant. See 1656 (eleos).