Eli, Eli, Lama, Sabachthani
TextsWhat is the meaning of Eli, Eli, Lama, Sabachthani in the Bible?
A phrase attributed to Jesus Christ on the cross, which is a quotation from Psalm 22:1. It is an Aramaic expression of despair and abandonment.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding this phrase as a direct quote of Psalm 22 allows readers to recognize that the Gospel writers intended to portray Jesus' crucifixion as the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy, revealing the theological depth behind the narrative of suffering.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Eli, Eli, Lama, Sabachthani functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Eli, Eli, Lama, Sabachthani in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Eli, Eli, Lama, Sabachthani clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Psalm 22:1
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Eli, Eli, Lama, Sabachthani." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/eli-eli-lama-sabachthani/