NAS Word Usage – Total: 18

1. need, indigence, want, privation, penury
2. a seeking, asking, entreating, entreaty to God or to man

What is the origin of the term “Deesis” in Greek in context of the Bible?

The term “Deesis” holds significant meaning in Greek within the context of the Bible. Derived from the Greek word “δέησις,” Deesis is often translated as “supplication” or “prayer” in English versions of the Bible. However, its meaning goes beyond a simple request or plea. In the New Testament, Deesis is commonly used to refer to an intense, fervent entreaty or petition to God.

The origin of the term “Deesis” can be traced back to ancient Greek literature and philosophy. In classical Greek, “Deesis” was used to describe a humble appeal or a supplication made to a deity, typically in times of need or distress. This concept carried over into the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament, where Deesis was employed to convey the idea of seeking God’s intervention through prayer.

In the context of the Bible, Deesis takes on a deeper spiritual significance, emphasizing the heartfelt communion between believers and God. It reflects the believers’ reliance on God for help, guidance, and mercy. The concept of Deesis is often associated with expressions of humility, faith, and trust in the divine providence of God.

One of the most notable depictions of Deesis in the Bible is found in 1 Timothy 2:1, where believers are encouraged to offer “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings” for all people. This verse underscores the importance of Deesis as a fundamental aspect of Christian faith and practice.

How is the concept of “Deesis” depicted in Greek Orthodox iconography?

In Greek Orthodox iconography, the concept of “Deesis” plays a central role in portraying the unity between humanity and divinity. The word “Deesis” originates from the Greek word “δέησις” (pronounced: deh-AY-sis), which translates to “supplication” or “prayer” in English. In the context of the Bible, Deesis is often depicted as a powerful form of intercessory prayer, where individuals earnestly seek the help and intervention of God or the saints.

The depiction of Deesis in Greek Orthodox iconography typically features a composition of three central figures: Christ Pantocrator (the Ruler of All), the Virgin Mary (Theotokos, the Mother of God), and John the Baptist (The Forerunner). Christ is usually shown in the center, with his hand raised in blessing or holding a book representing his teachings. The Virgin Mary stands to his right, her hands raised in prayer, symbolizing her role as the compassionate intercessor for humanity. John the Baptist is depicted to Christ’s left, often shown pointing towards Him, emphasizing his role as the messenger preparing the way for Christ’s ministry.

The figure of Christ in the Deesis icon represents the divine source of mercy and salvation, while the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist symbolize the human connection to Christ through their prayers and supplications. This unity of divine and human intercession illustrates the belief in the power of collective prayer and mediation for the forgiveness of sins and the redemption of humanity.

The Deesis icon serves as a visual representation of the theological concept of mediation and supplication prominent in the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. It invites believers to contemplate the unity of prayer between the earthly and heavenly realms, emphasizing the role of Christ as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.

Through the depiction of Deesis in Greek Orthodox iconography, believers are encouraged to engage in fervent prayer and seek the intercession of saints and heavenly beings in times of need. The concept of Deesis serves as a reminder of the continuous connection between the divine and the human, highlighting the accessibility of grace and mercy through faith and supplication.

What significance does the term “Deesis” hold in the prayer tradition of the Eastern Christian churches in the Bible?

In the context of the Bible, the term “Deesis” holds significant importance in the prayer tradition of the Eastern Christian churches. Derived from the Greek word “δέησις” (pronounced as deh’-ay-sis), Deesis is commonly translated as supplication, prayer, or entreaty. However, its true essence goes beyond these simple translations and delves into the deep spiritual and theological aspects of prayer within the Eastern Christian tradition.

Deesis is often depicted visually in Eastern Christian iconography as a representation of intercessory prayer. This depiction typically includes Christ in the center, with the Virgin Mary on one side and John the Baptist on the other, standing in prayerful poses. This representation symbolizes the belief in the mediation of Christ and the saints on behalf of humanity, emphasizing the importance of asking for their prayers and intercession.

The concept of Deesis is intertwined with the belief in the communion of saints, where the faithful ask for the prayers of those who have gone before them and now stand in the presence of God. This form of prayer acknowledges the role of the saints as intercessors who can bring the concerns and needs of the believers before God.

Furthermore, Deesis reflects the humility and reverence with which Eastern Christians approach prayer. It embodies the idea of standing before God with a spirit of contrition, seeking His mercy and grace through the intercession of Christ and the saints. This act of supplication is seen as a way to strengthen the bond between the faithful and the divine, fostering a deeper connection and relationship with God.

In the Eastern Christian liturgical tradition, Deesis plays a central role in various prayers, especially in the context of the Divine Liturgy and other sacred services. The inclusion of Deesis prayers emphasizes the communal nature of prayer and the unity of believers in seeking the mercy and compassion of God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the term “Deesis” in Greek, as used in the context of the Bible, holds a significant and profound meaning. Derived from the Greek word for supplication, Deesis represents the heartfelt and earnest prayers of individuals seeking the intercession of God or Christ. Throughout the Bible, particularly in the New Testament, the concept of Deesis is exemplified through the acts of believers imploring for divine intervention and guidance. Understanding the essence of Deesis enriches our interpretation of biblical texts and reinforces the importance of faith and reverence in our spiritual journey.