Ancient Olive Tree. Image by Valter Cirillo from Pixabay.
But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever. ~ Psalm 52:8
Elaia in Greek means Olive.
The Greek word mercy is éleos and is derived from oil as from the olive branch… a symbol for peace, harmony, soothing and healing.
The Hebrew word for mercy comes from hesed, which means steadfast love. When we say “Lord have mercy”, we are literally saying over and over: Lord… soothe me… and show me your healing, steadfast love!
Kyrie Eleison (in Greek), means Lord Have Mercy… a Biblical phrase and prayer to God, which briefly, yet completely, encompasses everything we ever need.