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G2253 · Greek · New Testament
ἡμιθανής
hēmithanēs
Adjective
Half-dead

Definition

From G2255 (hēmisu, half) and G2348 (thnēskō, to die). Used only in Luke 10:30 in the Good Samaritan parable.

Usage & Theological Significance

Hēmithanēs appears only once but carries immense weight. The man on the Jericho road is humanity after the Fall: stripped, wounded, half dead. He cannot save himself. The priest and Levite — the Law — pass by. Only the Samaritan — the despised outsider — stops. The deeper question: 'Who can save the half-dead?' Only one who crosses every boundary to reach us.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 10:30
...leaving him half dead.
Luke 10:33
But a certain Samaritan...when he saw him, he had compassion on him.
Luke 10:34
And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine...
Luke 10:36
Which now of these three...was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?
Romans 5:6
For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

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