Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the full meaning and context of the Scriptures. The Greek word ἵλεως (hileōs) is particularly significant because it conveys a sense of mercy, compassion, and being favorably disposed. In the New Testament, it is often used to express divine or human favor, especially in contexts where mercy is requested or shown. The concept of mercy is central to both the Old and New Testaments, making ἵλεως an important word for understanding the biblical themes of forgiveness and divine grace. In ancient Greek culture, it also carried connotations of appeasement and favorable disposition, particularly in religious contexts.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἵλεως, transliterated as hileōs [hee-LAY-ohs].
• Etymology: Related to the Greek verb ἱλάσκομαι (hilaskomai), meaning “to appease” or “to be propitious.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective.
• Grammatical Details: The word ἵλεως is a two-termination adjective that remains unchanged in some forms.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Merciful or gracious.
• Favorably disposed, benevolent.
• Appeased, propitious.

Similar Words: ἱλαστήριον (hilastērion) [hee-las-TAY-ree-on], which refers to the “mercy seat” or a “place of propitiation,” and ἱλασμός (hilasmos) [hee-las-MOS], which is often translated as “propitiation” or “atonement.” While ἵλεως describes a merciful or favorable attitude, ἱλαστήριον and ἱλασμός refer to the objects or acts that achieve appeasement.

Further Insights: ἵλεως is an irregular adjective with certain forms remaining unchanged across cases. Here is a table showing the declension:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ἵλεως as “gracious” or “merciful,” particularly in contexts where a person requests or is granted favor. The entry mentions Matthew 16:22 as a key example of its use in the New Testament.

Thayers: Lists ἵλεως as “propitious” or “merciful,” often used in appeals for divine favor. It is used as a plea for mercy or kindness, both human and divine.

Vines: Explains ἵλεως as an adjective meaning “propitious,” focusing on its use in requests for mercy or a favorable response from God or others. It notes the emotional and spiritual significance in its Biblical usage.

LSJ: In classical Greek, ἵλεως generally means “kind,” “gracious,” or “favorable,” frequently used to describe gods who are appeased or humans who are merciful.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἵλεως (G2436) as “forgiving” or “merciful,” emphasizing its usage in supplications and entreaties.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 16:22: “Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, ‘God forbid it, Lord! This shall never [ἵλεως] happen to You!'”
• Hebrews 8:12: “For I will be merciful [ἵλεως] to their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.”
• Hebrews 10:17: “And their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more [ἵλεως].”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἵλεως (G2436)

The Greek word ἵλεως (hileōs) is an important term in Biblical studies, reflecting the concept of mercy, favor, and graciousness. Its usage in the New Testament, especially in verses such as Matthew 16:22 and Hebrews 8:12, highlights both the human appeal for divine mercy and the divine response of forgiveness. This word provides insight into the character of God as merciful and compassionate, reinforcing the biblical theme that God is willing to forgive and be favorable towards those who seek Him. In classical Greek, ἵλεως is used similarly in religious and moral contexts, indicating a state of being favorably disposed or appeased.

Did You Know?

• ἵλεως was often used in ancient Greek prayers and supplications to deities, where worshippers sought favorable responses or mercy.
• In the Septuagint, ἵλεως appears in several books, especially in contexts involving forgiveness and favor.
• The adjective ἵλεως is unique in that it retains the same form in different cases, making it somewhat easier to remember in its original Greek form.

Understanding the full depth of ἵλεως enriches our comprehension of the biblical texts and the theological nuances they convey, particularly regarding the mercy and grace of God.