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G2034 · Greek · New Testament
ἑπτάκις
heptakis
Adverb
seven times

Definition

Heptakis means seven times — the adverbial form of hepta (seven). It appears in Matthew 18:21-22 (Peter's question about forgiving seven times, and Jesus' response about seventy-seven or seventy times seven), Luke 17:4 (forgiving a brother seven times in a day), and in Revelation contexts. The number seven already implies completeness; seven times amplifies the sense of utter fullness.

Usage & Theological Significance

When Jesus responds to Peter's proposed limit of forgiveness 'seven times' with 'seventy-seven times' (or 70x7), He is not providing a mathematical formula but destroying the concept of a forgiveness limit altogether. Heptakis in Peter's question reflects a generous standard — seven times already exceeds normal human patience. Jesus multiplies it to the point of absurdity: there is no ceiling on forgiveness because God has forgiven us an infinite debt (Matt 18:21-35, the parable of the unforgiving servant). The mathematics of grace always overflow every human calculation.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 18:21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister? Up to seven times [heptakis]?'
Matthew 18:22 Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times [heptakis], but seventy-seven times.'
Luke 17:4 Even if they sin against you seven times [heptakis] in a day and seven times come back to you saying 'I repent,' you must forgive them.
Matthew 18:27 The servant's master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.
Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

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