Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies because it provides insights into the text’s original meaning, context, and cultural background. The Greek word Ἠλίας (Ēlías) is significant because it refers to the prophet Elijah, a central figure in both Jewish and Christian traditions. Elijah is a powerful symbol of prophecy and divine intervention, and his name appears frequently in the New Testament, emphasizing the continuity between the Hebrew Scriptures and the teachings of Jesus.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Ἠλίας (Ēlías), pronounced [el-EE-as].
• Etymology: Derived from the Hebrew name אֵלִיָּהוּ (Eliyahu), meaning “My God is Yahweh.”
• Part of Speech: Proper noun (masculine); it serves as a personal name.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Elijah: Refers to the Old Testament prophet known for his zealous advocacy for monotheism and his miraculous acts. Elijah is a key figure in the New Testament as well, symbolizing the prophets in the trio of the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings.

Similar Words: Ἐλισαῖος (Elisaíos), pronounced [el-ee-SAY-os], refers to Elisha, Elijah’s successor. While Ἠλίας (Ēlías) is associated with confrontation, miracles, and fiery zeal, Ἐλισαῖος (Elisaíos) is remembered for his miracles of compassion and healing. Both names are deeply rooted in Hebrew prophetic tradition and carry significant theological weight.

Further Insights: Ἠλίας (Ēlías) is an indeclinable noun in the Greek New Testament, retaining its form regardless of grammatical case. This preservation of form indicates its direct borrowing from Hebrew, demonstrating respect for the cultural and religious context from which the name originated. In the Greek language, names from Hebrew often remain unchanged to maintain their original significance and pronunciation.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The BDAG lexicon identifies Ἠλίας (Ēlías) as the Greek form of Elijah, focusing on his role as a significant prophet in both the Old and New Testaments. The lexicon also notes his symbolic representation of the prophetic tradition in the Transfiguration scene alongside Moses.

Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon provides a detailed entry for Ἠλίας (Ēlías), emphasizing his zealous defense of Yahweh and his role in confronting Israel’s apostasy. Thayer’s also explores the eschatological significance of Elijah in Jewish and Christian thought, particularly his expected return before the “great and terrible day of the Lord” (Malachi 4:5).

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary highlights Ἠλίας (Ēlías) as a type of John the Baptist and mentions the prophecy in Malachi that Elijah would return, which is referenced in the Gospels.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon briefly lists Ἠλίας (Ēlías) as the Greek form of Elijah, referring readers to the Hebrew origin and its significance in Jewish tradition.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance defines Ἠλίας (Ēlías) as “Elijah,” directly linking it to its Hebrew origin and emphasizing its prophetic and eschatological significance.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 17:3: “And behold, Moses and Elijah (Ἠλίας) appeared to them, talking with Him.”
• Mark 9:4: “Elijah (Ἠλίας) appeared to them along with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus.”
• Luke 1:17: “It is he who will go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah (Ἠλίας)…”
• John 1:21: “They asked him, ‘What then? Are you Elijah (Ἠλίας)?’ And he said, ‘I am not.'”
• Romans 11:2: “God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew. Or do you not know what the Scripture says in the passage about Elijah (Ἠλίας), how he pleads with God against Israel?”

Classical Usage

Summary of Ἠλίας (G2243: Ēlías)

The Greek word Ἠλίας (Ēlías) represents the prophet Elijah, a towering figure in both Jewish and Christian traditions. His name, meaning “My God is Yahweh,” signifies his role as a defender of monotheism and a prophet of divine judgment. Elijah’s presence in the New Testament connects the Old Testament prophetic tradition with the ministry of Jesus, particularly in passages like the Transfiguration and the discussions about John the Baptist as Elijah’s spiritual successor. Understanding Elijah’s name and role enriches one’s comprehension of the continuity and fulfillment of Biblical prophecies.

Did You Know?

• Ἠλίας (Ēlías) is often associated with the idea of a “forerunner,” as seen in the New Testament depiction of John the Baptist coming “in the spirit and power of Elijah.”
• The Transfiguration of Jesus, where Elijah appears with Moses, represents the unity of the Law (Moses) and the Prophets (Elijah) with Jesus, highlighting the continuity of God’s revelation.
• Elijah is one of the few Biblical figures who did not die but was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, which contributes to the Jewish belief that he would return before the Messiah.