The Aramaic word for “God” is “Elaha” in its singular form and “Alaha” in the emphatic state, which is commonly used in Aramaic texts. Aramaic is a Semitic language closely related to Hebrew and Arabic, and it was widely spoken in the Near East during the time of Jesus. Understanding the use of “Elaha” in Aramaic provides insight into the linguistic and cultural context of the Bible, particularly the New Testament, where Aramaic was commonly spoken.
The Use of Aramaic in the Bible
Historical Context
Aramaic was the common language of the Jewish people during the time of the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE) and remained widely used in the region during the Second Temple period. By the time of Jesus, Aramaic was the everyday language of the Jews in Palestine, although Hebrew was still used in religious contexts.
Portions of the Old Testament, such as parts of the books of Daniel and Ezra, are written in Aramaic, reflecting the language’s significance. The New Testament contains several Aramaic phrases, often transliterated into Greek, which highlight its use by Jesus and His contemporaries.
Aramaic in the New Testament
One of the most famous Aramaic phrases spoken by Jesus is “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This phrase is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark as part of Jesus’ final words on the cross.
Mark 15:34 (NIV):
“And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?’ (which means ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’).”
“Eloi” is the Aramaic word for “My God,” showing the intimate and personal relationship Jesus had with God the Father, even in His moment of deepest anguish.
Understanding “Elaha” and “Alaha”
Linguistic Background
“Elaha” and “Alaha” are derived from the Semitic root “El,” which is also the root for the Hebrew word “Elohim,” a common name for God in the Old Testament. The word “Elaha” is used in Aramaic as the equivalent of “God,” just as “Elohim” is used in Hebrew.
In Aramaic, the emphatic state “Alaha” is often used to refer to God in a definitive sense, emphasizing His unique and singular nature as the one true God. This usage is similar to how “Elohim” in Hebrew, although plural in form, is often used with singular verbs and adjectives when referring to the God of Israel, emphasizing His majesty and authority.
Theological Implications
The use of “Elaha” or “Alaha” in Aramaic texts carries significant theological implications. It reflects the continuity of the belief in one God across different Semitic languages and cultures, affirming the monotheistic faith that is central to both Judaism and Christianity.
In the New Testament, where Jesus is recorded as speaking Aramaic, His use of “Elaha” or “Alaha” would have been a natural expression of His faith in God as Father. This underscores the personal and relational aspect of God, as understood by Jesus and His followers.
John 17:3 (NIV):
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
This verse reflects the essential Christian belief in the one true God, a belief that is linguistically and theologically connected to the use of “Elaha” in Aramaic.
The Continuity of the Divine Name
Connection to the Old Testament
The Aramaic word “Elaha” connects directly with the Hebrew “Elohim,” showing the linguistic and theological continuity between the Old and New Testaments. This continuity is significant in understanding the development of the concept of God in the biblical tradition.
The Use of Aramaic in Early Christianity
In the early Christian communities, particularly those in regions where Aramaic was spoken, the term “Elaha” would have been commonly used to refer to God. This usage reflects the early Christians’ Jewish roots and their continuity with the Hebrew Scriptures, even as the Gospel spread to non-Jewish (Gentile) communities.
Acts 2:11 (NIV):
“We hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!”
This verse from Acts, which describes the events of Pentecost, illustrates the linguistic diversity of the early Christian movement, where the message of God was communicated in various languages, including Aramaic.
Conclusion
The Aramaic word for God, “Elaha” or “Alaha,” is a significant term that reflects the linguistic and theological continuity between the Jewish and early Christian traditions. In the Bible, Aramaic phrases and words, including those used by Jesus, provide insight into the cultural and religious context of the time. The use of “Elaha” in Aramaic underscores the monotheistic faith that is central to the biblical narrative, affirming the belief in one true God who is personal, relational, and sovereign. Understanding this term enriches the study of Scripture and deepens our appreciation for the shared heritage of the Jewish and Christian faiths.