The word "Aceldama" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /əˈsɛldəmə/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by the stress on the second syllable. The letter "c" is pronounced as the soft "s" sound, and the final "-ma" is pronounced with the schwa sound as well. This word comes from Aramaic and means "field of blood". It is famously known as the place where Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus, and later hanged himself.
Aceldama is a noun that refers to a place of bloodshed or carnage, specifically the site traditionally identified as the field bought by priests with the thirty pieces of silver returned by Judas Iscariot after betraying Jesus Christ.
Aceldama traces its origins to the Aramaic language, where it is derived from two words: 'hakel' meaning 'field' and 'dema' meaning 'blood.' This compound meaning reflects its association with bloodshed or a site of violent acts. In Christian scriptures and tradition, it is referred to as a place where violence has taken place, often depicted as a desolate and cursed area.
The term Aceldama gained notoriety due to its biblical reference in the New Testament, specifically the book of Matthew. It is described as a field used for burial, known for its connection to betrayal and remorse. The field, which was purchased with Judas' ill-gotten gains, was used as a burial ground for foreigners. Due to its dark history and association with treachery, Aceldama has become a symbolic representation of a place tainted by violence, guilt, and moral corruption.
Beyond its biblical origins, Aceldama can also be used metaphorically to describe any location or situation where extensive violence or destruction has occurred. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of betrayal and serves as a cautionary tale in relation to personal and societal actions.
A field of blood.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Aceldama" comes from the Aramaic language. Its etymology can be understood by breaking it down into two parts: "akel" and "dema". "Akel" means "field" or "land", while "dema" means "blood". Therefore, "Aceldama" can be translated as "field of blood" or "bloody field" in Aramaic. This word gained prominence due to its mention in the New Testament of the Bible (specifically in the Book of Acts), where it refers to the field purchased by Judas Iscariot with the money he received for betraying Jesus Christ and later used as a burial ground.