What The Biblical Meaning of Tetelestai?

April 2024 · 3 minute read

The ultimate words spoken through our saviour Jesus Christ sooner than he died on the cross were translated as “It is finished” from the Greek phrase Tetelestai. The verb teleo, which means that “to bring to a conclusion, to finish, or to perform,” is the root of the phrase tetelestai. It’s crucial phrase because it denotes the accomplishment of a specific line of motion.

“Later, knowing that the entirety had now been completed, and so that Scripture could be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar used to be there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit as we will report in John 19:28-30.

When the Lord Jesus Christ cried ‘it is completed’ he intended “It was finished in the previous, it's still completed in the provide, and it will stay finished in the long term.” He, however, did not say ‘I Am Finished’. In that case, it will mean that he died defeated.

Read Also: The Life and Story of Moses In The Bible

What Does Tetelestai Really Means?

The English translation of the Greek phrase “It is done” is tetelestai, which is the easiest indicative passive worrying of the verb telos, this means that to terminate, to deliver to a conclusion, to finish, to accomplish, to meet, or to complete.

According to theologians, whatever reaches telos has accomplished adulthood, perfection, or finishing touch. There had been many various meanings for this phrase since it used to be first stated, however 4 of them are in particular necessary when it comes to this pivotal instance of Christ’s atonement.

Jesus’ Last Words from the Cross

  • Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. Luke 23:34
  • Truly, I say to you, today you'll be with me in paradise. Luke 23:43
  • Woman, behold your son. Son, behold your mother. John 19:26-27
  • My God, My God, why have you forsaken me? Matthew 27:46 & Mark 15:34
  • I thirst. John 19:28
  • It is completed. (From the Greek “Tetelestai”) John 19:30
  • Father, into thy arms I commend my spirit. Luke 23:46
  • Read Also: What Are The Seven Seals Of Revelation In The Bible?

    The Reason Why Jesus Christ Said ‘It Was Done’

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