λιμά

why

Definition

Λιμά is an Aramaic word transliterated into Greek, meaning 'why' or 'for what reason.' It is used exclusively in the New Testament as part of Jesus's cry of dereliction from the cross, recorded in both Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34. In these parallel passages, the full phrase is 'λιμά σαβαχθανί;' (lama sabachthani?), which translates to 'Why have you forsaken me?' This is a direct quotation from Psalm 22:1, expressing a profound sense of abandonment and anguish. The word itself functions as a poignant interrogative, framing a deep, existential question directed to God.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, in the identical cry of Jesus in Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34. Its usage is highly specific and dramatic, occurring at the climactic moment of Jesus's crucifixion. The context is one of intense suffering and spiritual desolation. The pattern of usage shows it is not a general Greek adverb but a deliberate, sacred borrowing from Aramaic (via Hebrew Scripture) to preserve the exact emotional and theological weight of Jesus's words.

Etymology

Λιμά (lima) is not originally Greek but a Greek transliteration of the Aramaic word 'לְמָה' (lĕmâ), which itself derives from the Hebrew 'לָמָה' (lāmâ), meaning 'why?' or 'for what reason?' Its inclusion in the Greek New Testament represents a direct quotation from the Hebrew Scriptures (Psalm 22:1), preserving the original language of the psalmist's cry, which Jesus appropriates.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically profound as it anchors Jesus's crucifixion experience within the messianic prophecy of Psalm 22. His use of 'λιμά' expresses genuine human anguish and identifies him with the suffering righteous one of the Psalms. It highlights the mystery of the incarnation and the Son's experience of abandonment as he bears the sin of the world, fulfilling Scripture. Understanding this Aramaic word enriches reading by connecting Jesus's cry directly to its Old Testament context, emphasizing the depth of his sacrifice and his solidarity with human suffering.

For a 1st-century Jewish audience, hearing this Aramaic phrase (a common vernacular) would immediately evoke the entire context of Psalm 22—a psalm that moves from despair to triumphant trust in God. Using the Aramaic form, rather than a Greek translation, preserved the raw, intimate, and culturally specific cry. It signified a direct address to God in a moment of ultimate crisis, recognizable to listeners familiar with the Scriptures and the language of prayer.

τί (ti, G5101) — The standard Greek interrogative 'why?'; λιμά is a sacred, quoted Aramaic term with specific contextual weight.

Word Details

Scripture References