ἔλεος (eleos)
eleos
mercy
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 26 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word eleos denotes active compassion or pity, specifically the desire to help those who are miserable or afflicted. In the New Testament, it describes mercy shown by people toward one another, as when Jesus cites Hosea to emphasize that God desires mercy rather than ritual sacrifice (Matthew 9:13; 12:7). It also appears in practical instructions, such as James’ warning that judgment without mercy fails those who show no mercy themselves (James 2:13).
More frequently, eleos characterizes the nature of God. It captures His steadfast kindness and provision for humanity, a theme prominent in Luke’s Gospel where Mary praises God for His mercy toward the humble (Luke 1:50, 54). The term also appears in Christian greetings and benedictions, reflecting the belief that salvation comes through divine clemency rather than human effort (Ephesians 2:4; Titus 3:5).
This word often translates the Hebrew chesed, which implies loyal, covenantal love. The sources note a close synonym in oiktirmos, but eleos tends to emphasize the outward action of mercy. Translators usually render it simply as "mercy," though the Greek sense includes both the feeling of pity and the concrete act of relief.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Mercy is not just a feeling of pity; it is an active hand reaching down to lift someone up. When Jesus quoted Hosea, He reminded us that God cares more about our kindness to others than our religious rituals. This shifts the focus from checking boxes to caring for people. It invites you to see those around you not as burdens, but as neighbors in need of help.
God’s mercy is the foundation of your hope. It is not earned by perfect behavior but given freely because of His love. You can approach Him with confidence, knowing that He meets you in your weaknesses with grace. This steady kindness sustains you through hard seasons and reminds you that you are never alone.
Living out this mercy means treating others with the same patience you receive from God. It is a practical faith that shows up in small acts of help and forgiveness. Let this truth encourage you to extend grace to yourself and others, resting in the security of His steadfast love.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 26 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- mercy17×
- mercy,3×
- of mercy2×
- Mercy2×
- of compassion1×
- mercy;1×
- compassion1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔλεος17×
- ἐλέους4×
- ἔλεος,2×
- ἐλέει2×
- ἔλεος·1×
- ἐλέους,1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 9:13
But you go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ for I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
Jesus uses this word to show that God prioritizes compassionate action over empty religious performance.
-
Luke 1:50
His mercy is for generations and generations on those who fear him.
Mary’s song highlights that God’s mercy is a lasting gift for those who live in reverence of Him.
-
Ephesians 2:4
But God, being rich in mercy, for his great love with which he loved us,
This verse anchors salvation in God’s rich mercy rather than human effort or merit.
-
James 2:13
For judgment is without mercy to him who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
The author warns that showing no mercy to others leaves you without mercy when judged.
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Hebrews 4:16
Let’s therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need.
Believers are invited to boldly ask for mercy because God provides help in times of need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does eleos mean in the New Testament?
How is mercy different from grace?
Why does Jesus say God desires mercy rather than sacrifice?
Where else does this word appear in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (26 verses across 13 books)
Matthew 3 verses
But you go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ for I came not to call the righteous, but…
Matthew 12:7But if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ you wouldn’t have condemned the guiltless.
Matthew 23:23“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint, dill, and cumin, and have left undone the weightier…