ἀνελεήμων

The Greek word ἀνελεήμων (aneleēmōn), translated as "merciless," is a term that denotes a lack of pity or compassion. Its meaning is directly related to its root words: ἀν- (indicating absence) and ελεῆ (to pity or have compassion). Literally, ἀνελεήμων means lacking pity. Given that it occurs only once in the Bible, this word's usage is quite specific. The significance of this word lies in its emotional weight, highlighting the depth of a person's callousness or hardness of heart. By using ἀνελεήμων, the author of the relevant passage is painting a vivid picture of someone who is unyielding and devoid of empathy.