The meaning of “οἰκτιρμός”
Understanding oiktirmós reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
mercy. - pity
οἰκτιρμός
mercy. - pity
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Romans 12:1 | “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Word: οἰκτιρμός (oiktirmós) | |
| 2 Corinthians 1:3 | “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;” Word: οἰκτιρμός (oiktirmós) | |
| Philippians 2:1 | “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,” Word: οἰκτιρμός (oiktirmós) | |
| Colossians 3:12 | “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;” Word: οἰκτιρμός (oiktirmós) | |
| Hebrews 10:28 | “He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:” Word: οἰκτιρμός (oiktirmós) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Mercy
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Compassion, mercy
The Hebrew rachamim (רַחֲמִים) derives from 'womb' (rechem), suggesting tender, maternal compassion. God's mercies are 'new every morning' (Lamentations 3:23), showing His compassionate nature.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Mercy, compassion
The Greek eleos (ἔλεος) denotes compassionate mercy—pity for those in distress. God is 'rich in mercy' (Ephesians 2:4), withholding deserved punishment and granting undeserved kindness.