ἔλευσις

a coming, arrival, advent

Definition

ἔλευσις refers to the act of coming or arriving, specifically denoting an arrival that is significant or anticipated. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively in Acts 7:52 to describe the 'coming' of the Righteous One, a clear reference to the advent of Jesus Christ. This singular usage gives the word a strong messianic connotation, framing it not as a mundane arrival but as a pivotal, prophesied event. The term thus carries a sense of purposeful fulfillment, marking the appearance of a key figure in God's redemptive plan.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Stephen's speech in Acts 7:52. Here, it is used in a prophetic and accusatory context, as Stephen charges the Jewish leaders with betraying and murdering the prophets who foretold the 'coming' (ἔλευσις) of the Righteous One. Its usage is entirely christological, directly tied to the expectation and realization of the Messiah's arrival. There are no other patterns, as this is its sole occurrence.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἔρχομαι (erchomai, G2064), meaning 'to come' or 'to go.' The noun formation (-σις) indicates the action or process of coming. It is a straightforward nominalization, with its core meaning rooted in the common verb for movement and arrival. Cognates and related words include ἔλευσις (eleysis) and the more common noun παρουσία (parousia, G3952), which also means 'coming' or 'presence,' but often with a stronger emphasis on the accompanying presence.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant because its only biblical use points directly to the Messiah. In Acts 7:52, it encapsulates the entire Old Testament prophetic expectation of the coming Savior. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that Stephen is not speaking of a general arrival but is invoking a specific, promised, and long-awaited divine visitation. It connects the prophets' messages directly to the person and work of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy in His advent.

In a Greco-Roman context, the word could be used for any notable arrival, such as the visit of a dignitary or official. However, in the Jewish context of Stephen's speech, it would have resonated with the deep cultural and religious anticipation of the Messiah's coming, as promised in the Hebrew scriptures. The charge that the leaders opposed this 'coming' directly challenged their identity as the upholders of that prophetic tradition.

παρουσία (parousia, G3952) — emphasizes the accompanying presence and often refers to the second coming of Christ. ἔρχομαι (erchomai, G2064) — the root verb, meaning simply 'to come' or 'to go.'

Word Details

Scripture References