Lama
TextsWhat is the meaning of Lama in the Bible?
The phrase ELI, ELI, LAMA SABACHTHANI appears in Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34 as the final words of Jesus on the cross, translating to 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding this Aramaic utterance provides direct access to the historical voice of Jesus, emphasizing the authenticity of the Gospel accounts and illustrating the depth of his identification with human suffering and the psalmist's lament in Psalm 22.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Lama 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 Lama in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Lama clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Matthew 27:46Mark 15:34
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
"Lama." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/lama/