χάριν

on account of

Definition

Χάριν is a preposition meaning 'on account of,' 'for the sake of,' or 'because of.' It introduces the reason or purpose for an action, often highlighting a causal relationship. For example, in Luke 7:47, Jesus says a woman's sins are forgiven 'on account of' her great love. In Galatians 3:19, the law was added 'because of' transgressions. It can also denote purpose, as in Titus 1:5, where Paul left Titus in Crete 'for the purpose of' setting things in order.

Biblical Usage

Χάριν is used nine times in the New Testament, primarily in the Pauline epistles (Galatians, Ephesians, 1 Timothy, Titus) and once in Luke and 1 John. It consistently functions as a preposition governing a genitive noun to state a reason or purpose. For instance, in Ephesians 3:1 and 3:14, Paul is a prisoner 'on account of' Christ Jesus and bows his knees 'on account of' this reason. The usage in 1 John 3:12 states Cain killed his brother 'on account of' his own evil deeds.

Etymology

Χάριν is the accusative singular form of the noun χάρις (charis, G5485), meaning 'grace,' 'favor,' or 'thanks.' As a preposition, it developed from the idea of 'for the sake of a favor' or 'out of regard for,' emphasizing a motivating cause. This etymological link to 'grace' subtly colors its usage, sometimes implying a beneficial or gracious reason behind an action.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it often points to the divine motivations behind God's actions. In Galatians 3:19, it explains the purpose of the Mosaic law in relation to sin. In Ephesians 3:1, 14, it connects Paul's suffering and prayer directly to Christ and the revelation of the mystery of the gospel. Understanding χάριν helps readers see the 'why' behind biblical events and teachings, enriching our grasp of God's purposeful plan and the causal connections in scripture.

In Koine Greek, χάριν as a preposition was a standard, though not extremely common, way to express cause or purpose. Its derivation from the noun for 'grace/favor' might have carried a slight nuance of a positive or favorable reason, but in biblical usage, it is applied broadly to both positive and negative causes (e.g., love in Luke 7:47 and evil deeds in 1 John 3:12).

διὰ (dia, G1223) — a more common preposition for 'through' or 'on account of,' often with the accusative case to express cause. ἕνεκα (heneka, G1752) — also means 'on account of' or 'for the sake of,' with a very similar meaning and usage.

Word Details

Scripture References