ἐλεέω

I pity, have mercy on

Definition

ἐλεέω (eleeō) means to show mercy, compassion, or pity, often from a position of power or advantage toward someone in need. In the New Testament, it frequently describes God's merciful action toward humanity (Romans 9:15-16) or Jesus' response to human suffering and faith (Matthew 9:27, 20:30-31). It can also refer to the mercy humans are to show one another, as in the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:33). The term implies not just a feeling but an active, beneficial response to another's distress.

Biblical Usage

This verb appears 28 times, predominantly in the Gospels, where it is often part of the plea, 'Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David!' from those seeking healing (e.g., Matthew 15:22, 17:15). It is also used in key teachings about mercy, such as the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:7) and in Pauline theology to emphasize God's sovereign choice (Romans 9:15-16, 18). The usage consistently connects mercy with a request for or demonstration of healing, forgiveness, or divine favor.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun ἔλεος (eleos, G1656), meaning 'mercy' or 'pity.' The root concept is deeply embedded in the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), where it often translates the Hebrew חֶסֶד (ḥesed), denoting covenantal loyalty and steadfast love. This background enriches the New Testament usage with overtones of God's faithful, covenant-keeping compassion.

Semantic Range

This word is central to the biblical theme of divine mercy. It underscores that salvation and healing are acts of God's gracious choice, not human merit (Romans 9:16). Understanding ἐλεέω highlights that biblical mercy is active and initiates from God's character, calling believers to mirror this same compassionate action (Matthew 18:33, James 2:13). It enriches reading by connecting Jesus' healing ministry directly to God's covenantal faithfulness.

In the Greco-Roman world, mercy (eleos) could be seen as a virtue, but it was often a discretionary gift from a superior to an inferior. The Jewish context, informed by the Septuagint, infused the term with the richer, relational concept of God's steadfast covenantal love (ḥesed). This difference is key: the New Testament usage is less about occasional pity and more about the faithful, committed mercy rooted in God's covenant promises.

σπλαγχνίζομαι (splagchnizomai, G4697) — denotes a deep, visceral compassion, often translated 'moved with compassion.' οἰκτείρω (oikteirō, G3627) — to have pity or compassion, used less frequently and sometimes with a nuance of feeling sorrow for someone's state.

Word Details

Scripture References