Ἠλίας

Elijah

Definition

Ἠλίας refers to Elijah, the prominent Old Testament prophet from the 9th century BC, known for his zealous ministry in Israel during the reign of King Ahab. In the New Testament, he is presented both as a historical figure and as a typological forerunner. He appears in person alongside Moses at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:3), symbolizing the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets in Jesus. Some also identified John the Baptist as fulfilling the role of Elijah who was to come (Malachi 4:5-6, Matthew 11:14), while others speculated Jesus himself might be Elijah (Matthew 16:14).

Biblical Usage

The name Ἠλίας is used 30 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels (especially Matthew, Mark, and Luke) and once in Romans 11:2. It is used in narratives recounting Jesus' ministry (e.g., Matthew 17:3-4), in discussions about John the Baptist's identity (Matthew 11:14, 17:10-12), and in a mistaken cry from the crowd at the crucifixion (Matthew 27:47, Mark 15:35). The usage consistently connects him to prophetic authority, eschatological expectation, and the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Etymology

Ἠλίας is the Greek form of the Hebrew name אֵלִיָּהוּ (Eliyahu), meaning 'Yahweh is my God.' This name perfectly encapsulates the prophet's core message and confrontation with the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18). The New Testament uses the Hellenized form familiar to Greek-speaking audiences.

Semantic Range

Elijah is a theologically significant figure representing the prophetic tradition, the covenant faithfulness of God, and the hope of restoration. His appearance at the Transfiguration confirms Jesus as the culmination of the Old Testament witness. The debate about Elijah's return (Matthew 17:10) ties him directly to messianic expectation and the ministry of John the Baptist as a preparatory voice. Understanding this Greek name connects the testaments, showing how the New Testament authors saw Elijah as a key typological figure pointing to Christ and the coming kingdom.

For first-century Jews, Elijah was not merely a historical prophet but an eschatological figure whose return was eagerly anticipated to restore all things before the 'great and dreadful day of the Lord' (Malachi 4:5-6). This expectation shaped how people interpreted the ministries of both John the Baptist and Jesus. The crowd's cry at the cross (Matthew 27:47) may reflect a belief that Elijah would come to rescue the righteous.

προφήτης (prophētēs, G4396) — A general term for 'prophet'; Elijah is a specific, defining example of this office.

Word Details

Scripture References