ἐλεημοσύνη (eleēmosunē)
eleēmosunē
charity
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 13 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun eleēmosunē refers to acts of mercy that take the concrete form of giving to those in need. While its root relates to compassion, in Scripture it specifically denotes almsgiving—the material support provided to the poor as an expression of pity. This concept bridges internal feeling and external action, turning empathy into tangible aid for others.
Translators often render this word as "charity" or "alms," highlighting its focus on financial or material generosity rather than general kindness. The texts emphasize the practice itself, noting actions like giving alms in secret (Matthew 6:4) or asking for alms at the temple gate (Acts 3:2). In Acts, charitable deeds are frequently cited as evidence of a person’s faith and righteousness, such as in the case of Tabitha, whose good works were well known to all (Acts 9:36).
This term carries significant weight in Jesus’ teaching, where he links generosity with spiritual purity. In Luke 11:41, he suggests that giving alms can cleanse a person, indicating that such acts are not merely social duties but have deep theological significance. The word underscores the idea that true mercy involves sharing one’s resources to relieve the suffering of others.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Charity in the New Testament is more than a polite gesture; it is mercy made visible. When we give to those in need, we are not just transferring resources but embodying the compassion of God. This practice bridges the gap between feeling sorry for someone and actually helping them survive. It turns empathy into tangible aid, showing that our faith has hands and feet.
Jesus taught that such giving should be done quietly, without seeking applause from others. The focus is on the heart’s posture rather than public recognition. By sharing what we have with those who lack basic needs, we participate in a spiritual rhythm that honors God and supports our neighbors. This act of generosity reflects the character of Christ Himself.
Consider how this simple act can transform both the giver and the receiver. It is a practical way to love our neighbor as ourselves. When we give freely, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from God. This perspective helps us live with open hands and generous hearts, trusting that God provides for all our needs.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 13 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- alms7×
- of alms1×
- giving1×
- charity1×
- alms;1×
- alms,1×
- acts of charity,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐλεημοσύνην4×
- ἐλεημοσύνην,2×
- ἐλεημοσύνας2×
- ἐλεημοσύναι2×
- ἐλεημοσύνην·1×
- ἐλεημοσύνη1×
- ἐλεημοσυνῶν1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 6:4
so that your merciful deeds may be in secret, then your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
This verse highlights the importance of secrecy in giving, ensuring the act is between the giver and God rather than a performance for others.
-
Acts 3:2
A certain man who was lame from his mother’s womb was being carried, whom they laid daily at the door of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask gifts for the needy of those who entered into the temple.
The lame man’s request at the Beautiful Gate illustrates how almsgiving was a daily reality and a recognized need within the early community.
-
Acts 9:36
Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which when translated means Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and acts of mercy which she did.
Tabitha is remembered specifically for her acts of mercy, showing that charitable deeds are a lasting mark of a disciple’s life.
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Luke 12:33
Sell what you have and give gifts to the needy. Make for yourselves purses which don’t grow old, a treasure in the heavens that doesn’t fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.
Jesus connects selling possessions and giving to the needy with storing up eternal treasure, linking material generosity with spiritual security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does eleēmosunē mean in the Bible?
How is eleēmosunē different from general kindness?
Why is giving alms in secret important?
Every Occurrence (13 verses across 3 books)
Matthew 3 verses
Therefore, when you do merciful deeds, don’t sound a trumpet before yourself, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues…
Matthew 6:3But when you do merciful deeds, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand does,
Matthew 6:4so that your merciful deeds may be in secret, then your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.