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G5483 · Greek · New Testament
χαρίζομαι
charizomai
Verb
to give freely, to forgive, to grant

Definition

To give graciously, to bestow as a favor, to forgive a debt or offense. From charis (grace), charizomai means giving that flows from generosity, not obligation. It covers both gift-giving and debt-canceling, both grace and forgiveness.

Usage & Theological Significance

God graciously gives us all things (Romans 8:32): salvation is a gift, not wages. Paul uses charizomai for forgiveness: 'forgiving each other, as God in Christ forgave you' (Ephesians 4:32). The parable of the two debtors (Luke 7:42) uses this verb — both debts were graciously canceled. Forgiveness is not minimizing offense but absorbing the cost and releasing the debtor. God's forgiving mirrors His giving — both are grace.

Key Bible Verses

Ephesians 4:32 Forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Romans 8:32 He who did not spare his own Son, will he not also graciously give us all things?
Colossians 2:13 God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins.
Luke 7:42 Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both.
Philippians 1:29 It has been granted to you not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for him.

Related Words

External Resources

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