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G3629 · Greek · New Testament
οἰκτίρμων
oiktirmon
Adjective
merciful, compassionate

Definition

Deeply compassionate — feeling and acting on the misery of others. Used of God's mercy (Luke 6:36: 'Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful') and in the NT exhortation to show mercy.

Usage & Theological Significance

Luke 6:36 uses oiktirmon in the Sermon on the Plain parallel to Matthew's 'perfect' (Matt 5:48). Mercy, not abstract perfection, is the defining family trait of God's children.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 6:36 Be merciful [oiktirmon], even as your Father is merciful.
James 5:11 The Lord is compassionate [oiktirmon] and merciful.
Romans 12:1 By the mercies [oiktirmon] of God, present your bodies as a living sacrifice.

Word Study

James 5:11 pairs oiktirmon with polusplagchnos (very compassionate) — double-strength mercy language for God. The appeal of Romans 12:1 is grounded entirely in God's mercies, not obligation.

Related Words

External Resources

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