The meaning of “αἷμα”
Understanding haîma reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
of uncertain derivation blood. - blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (...
αἷμα
of uncertain derivation blood. - blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of Christ) - by implication, bloodshed, also kindred
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 27:4 | “Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that. ” Word: αἷμα (haîma) | |
| Luke 11:51 | “From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.” Word: αἷμα (haîma) | |
| Acts 17:26 | “And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;” Word: αἷμα (haîma) | |
| 1 Corinthians 11:27 | “Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.” Word: αἷμα (haîma) | |
| Ephesians 2:13 | “But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” Word: αἷμα (haîma) |
Theological Word Study: Blood
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Blood
The Hebrew dam (דָּם) means blood—representing life itself. 'The life of the flesh is in the blood' (Leviticus 17:11), and blood was required for atonement, foreshadowing Christ's sacrifice.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Blood
The Greek haima (αἷμα) denotes blood. Christ's blood 'cleanseth us from all sin' (1 John 1:7), securing 'eternal redemption' (Hebrews 9:12) through His once-for-all sacrifice. Believers have been 'purchased with his own blood' (Acts 20:28).