ἐλεημοσύνη

alms-giving, charity

Definition

ἐλεημοσύνη primarily means 'alms-giving' or 'charity,' referring to the act of giving to those in need as an expression of mercy. In the New Testament, it often denotes the concrete gift itself, the 'alms' given (e.g., Acts 3:2-3). In Jesus's teaching in Matthew 6:1-4, the word is central to his critique of performing righteous acts for public praise, emphasizing that true almsgiving should be a private act of devotion to God. In Luke 11:41 and 12:33, the concept is linked to inner purity and the proper use of wealth, suggesting that charity flows from a heart rightly oriented toward God's kingdom.

Biblical Usage

The word is used 14 times, predominantly in the Gospels (Matthew, Luke) and Acts. In Matthew 6:1-4, it is used in Jesus's Sermon on the Mount to instruct on righteous living. In Luke, it appears in teachings about inner purity and discipleship (Luke 11:41; 12:33). In Acts 3:2-3, 10, it describes the alms sought by the lame beggar, illustrating a common social practice. The usage consistently connects material giving with spiritual or moral integrity.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word ἔλεος (eleos, G1656), meaning 'mercy' or 'pity.' Thus, ἐλεημοσύνη literally means 'mercy-doing' or 'an act of mercy.' This root highlights that almsgiving in the biblical sense is not merely a financial transaction but a tangible expression of compassionate mercy toward others.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it ties material generosity directly to the virtue of mercy and one's relationship with God. Jesus elevates almsgiving from a social duty to a core spiritual discipline, warning against hypocrisy (Matthew 6:2) and commending secrecy that honors God (Matthew 6:4). It reflects the biblical principle that care for the poor is an essential outworking of faith (Luke 11:41) and a proper use of earthly resources in light of eternal treasure (Luke 12:33). Understanding the Greek root in 'mercy' enriches reading by emphasizing the compassionate heart behind the action.

In first-century Jewish culture, almsgiving (צְדָקָה, tzedakah) was a highly regarded religious duty, a tangible expression of righteousness and piety. Giving alms was often public, linked to one's social and religious standing. Jesus's teaching in Matthew 6 directly challenges this public display, redirecting the motive from human praise to divine approval. The beggar in Acts 3:2-3 represents a common societal reality where the disabled relied on temple alms for survival.

ἔλεος (eleos, G1656) — The root word meaning 'mercy' or 'compassion,' the inward feeling from which almsgiving (ἐλεημοσύνη) outwardly proceeds. δωρεά (dōrea, G1431) — A 'gift' or 'free gift,' often with a broader, more general sense, not specifically tied to charitable giving to the poor. φιλανθρωπία (philanthrōpia, G5363) — 'Love for humankind,' 'benevolence,' a more general term for kindness toward people.

Word Details

Scripture References