Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Intercession”
The biblical word “Intercession” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (paga / entugchano), where it meant “To go between, to plead on behalf of another, to make petition”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “The act of praying or petitioning on behalf of another; Christ's continual advocacy before God”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekpaga / entugchanoTo go between, to plead on behalf of another, to make petition
Hebrew paga (H6294) means to meet, encounter, or intercede. Greek entugchano (G1793) means to plead on behalf of. Used for Christ's intercession in Romans 8:34 and Hebrews 7:25.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinintercessioPrayer or petition made on behalf of another, especially Christ's continual prayer for believers
Latin intercessio from intercedere (to go between, intervene). Medieval theology developed Christ's role as perpetual intercessor before the Father, advocating for believers.
Modern English
EnglishintercessionThe act of praying or petitioning on behalf of another; Christ's continual advocacy before God
From Latin via Old French. Christian practice emphasizes intercessory prayer as participation in Christ's priestly work; Hebrews 7:25 is central to this doctrine.