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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for a deeper grasp of the scriptures, as it sheds light on the original meaning and context that may be lost in translation. The Greek word λεμά (lemá), first appearing in Matthew 27:46, holds particular significance because it is part of one of the most profound and emotional moments in the New Testament—Jesus’ cry on the cross. This word connects the Greek text of the New Testament to its underlying Aramaic and Hebrew contexts, highlighting both linguistic diversity and theological depth in ancient Judeo-Christian culture.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: λεμά, transliterated as lemá [pronounced: le-MAH].

Etymology: λεμά is derived from the Aramaic word לְמָא (lemá), which means “why” or “for what purpose.” The root is linked to the Hebrew לָמָּה (lāmāh), carrying the same meaning. This word serves to question the reason or purpose behind something, often expressing distress or confusion.

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Part of Speech: Adverb. λεμά functions as an adverb in Greek, used to form a question about reason or purpose. It does not decline and remains invariant, serving a syntactic role in direct and indirect questions.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Why or For What Purpose: The primary meaning of λεμά is “why” or “for what purpose.” It is used to ask a question concerning the reason behind an event or action. This meaning is evident in its use in Jesus’ cry on the cross in Matthew 27:46, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” which translates to “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

Exploring Similar Words

1. διατί (diatí) [pronounced: dee-ah-TEE]: This word also means “why” or “for what reason” and is used in similar contexts to λεμά. It differs slightly in that it can introduce more formal or philosophical inquiries.

2. πρός τί (pros tí) [pronounced: pros TEE]: Translated as “towards what” or “for what purpose,” this phrase is more directional and specific, often implying a future purpose rather than a past reason.

3. ἵνα τί (hina tí) [pronounced: HEE-na TEE]: Meaning “in order that what” or “why,” this phrase introduces purpose clauses in a more structured or intentional way, unlike the more spontaneous questioning tone of λεμά.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Part of Speech and Usage: λεμά is an adverb and does not follow any declension pattern like nouns or adjectives. As an adverb, it remains invariant in form, focusing on modifying the verb to indicate the questioning nature of the statement.

Since λεμά is an adverb, it does not change based on case, number, or gender. Therefore, there is no declension table or conjugation required for this word.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In the New Testament, λεμά is uniquely used in Matthew 27:46 to capture the Aramaic expression spoken by Jesus during His crucifixion. Lexical studies emphasize that this word directly connects the Greek text to its underlying Semitic roots, showcasing the linguistic diversity within the New Testament. In classical Greek texts, words with a similar function are typically translated differently, but the transliterated use of λεμά in this context highlights the preservation of Jesus’ exact words for their theological and emotional impact. This word brings to the forefront the raw human experience of Jesus as He questions God during His suffering, underscoring His identification with human distress and abandonment.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 27:46: “About the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Eli, Eli, lema [λεμά] sabachthani?’ that is, ‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?'”

Mark 15:34: “At the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema [λεμά] sabachthani?’ which is translated, ‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?'”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author	Name of Work	English Text with Greek Word
Not Applicable	Not Applicable	λεμά is not used in classical Greek literature; it is specific to the New Testament context and Aramaic influence.
Septuagint	Psalm 22:1 (LXX)	“My God, My God, why (λεμά) have You forsaken me?” This is the Hebrew and Aramaic origin echoed in Jesus’ words.
Septuagint	Not Available	There are no other direct uses of λεμά in the Septuagint outside this context.
Not Applicable	Not Applicable	The word λεμά does not appear elsewhere in classical Greek usage.

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word λεμά (lemá) is an adverb that means “why” or “for what purpose.” Its unique use in the New Testament, particularly in Matthew 27:46, connects the Greek text to its underlying Aramaic and Hebrew origins. λεμά provides a profound insight into Jesus’ final moments on the cross, capturing both His human despair and theological depth. Understanding λεμά helps deepen our comprehension of the emotional and cultural context of Jesus’ crucifixion, bridging the gap between the Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic traditions within the Bible.

Did You Know?

The use of λεμά in Matthew 27:46 is a direct transliteration of the Aramaic spoken by Jesus, preserving His original words to convey the raw emotion and significance of the moment.
This cry from the cross echoes Psalm 22:1, a Messianic psalm that foreshadows Jesus’ suffering and ultimate vindication, linking the Old and New Testaments.
The word λεμά is part of a profound theological discussion about Jesus’ experience of abandonment, showcasing the intersection of divine purpose and human emotion in Christian doctrine.