8: Eloi, Eloi, Lama Sabachthani? — אֱלָהִי אֱלָהִי לָמָה שְׁבַקְתַּנִי?

1. Term: Eloi, Eloi, Lama Sabachthani?

Meaning: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

2. Historical-Cultural Context:

  • This is a direct quotation of Psalm 22:1 in Aramaic, spoken by Jesus on the cross.
  • Reflects deep anguish and fulfillment of messianic prophecy.
  • Demonstrates the use of Aramaic in the Passion narrative, highlighting Jesus’ humanity and cultural context.
  • The phrase preserves the original language of Jesus’ cry, emphasizing authenticity.

3. Literary Examples:

  • Mark 15:34 — “And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?’”
  • Psalm 22:1 — The Old Testament psalm expressing suffering and trust in God.

4. Cultural Significance:

  • The phrase captures the intense emotional and theological moment of Jesus’ crucifixion.
  • It connects the Passion to Old Testament lament traditions.
  • Shows how Aramaic expressions convey profound spiritual truths in the New Testament.
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