The meaning of “θέλημα”
Understanding thélēma reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
desire, pleasure, will. - a determination (properly, the thing), i.e. (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree - ab...
θέλημα
desire, pleasure, will. - a determination (properly, the thing), i.e. (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree - abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 18:14 | “Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” Word: θέλημα (thélēma) | |
| John 6:39 | “And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.” Word: θέλημα (thélēma) | |
| 1 Corinthians 7:37 | “Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well.” Word: θέλημα (thélēma) | |
| Ephesians 1:11 | “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:” Word: θέλημα (thélēma) | |
| 2 Timothy 2:26 | “And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. ” Word: θέλημα (thélēma) |