The Greek word behind "forgive" in Matthew 6:12 is *aphiemi* (Strong's 863), which in classical Greek carried various meanings such as to send off, to release, to let go, or to let be. In Scripture, it often conveys the sense of to leave, as seen when Zebedee's sons left their father to follow Christ. It can also mean to set aside, as when the Pharisees laid aside God's law for their traditions. Additionally, it appears in contexts meaning to allow or permit, such as when Jesus allowed only Peter, James, and John to witness His transfiguration. The Greeks used *aphiemi* to signify remission or forgiveness, both in a secular sense of forgiving a monetary debt and in a religious sense of pardoning a fault or sin, describing a dismissal or release from obligation. Its spiritual usage implies not only absolving a sinner from what is owed but also carries undertones of laying aside, leaving behind, letting go, and leaving alone. When God forgives, the debt is wholly removed, never to be revisited or reinstated; it is laid aside, left behind, let go, and left alone. This same principle should apply when people forgive others.

The Greek word *aphiemi* (G863) is significant in understanding the process of remission of sins through Jesus Christ's sacrifice. It stems from the words *apo* and *hiemi*, which together mean to let go or send forth by separation, as in a violent separation of blood from the body's pressurized circulatory system. In the context of Jesus' death, this term reflects the complete separation from His Father as the sins of the world, laid upon Him by God the Father, were poured out with His shed blood. The related word *aphesis*, derived from *aphiemi*, translates to remission, release, or liberty, indicating that the sins flowed out with Jesus' blood, no longer contained within Him. This act of yielding up or expiring underscores the profound cost of His sacrifice, ensuring that the guilt of humanity could be released through His ultimate separation and death.

The Greek word for forgive, *aphiemi* (G863), primarily means to send forth or send away, signifying the remission of punishment due to sinful conduct. It also involves the complete removal of the cause of the offense, offering full pardon for wrongdoing. This concept underscores the importance of forgiveness as taught by Jesus Christ, emphasizing that as often as someone offends and seeks forgiveness, it should be extended without limit. Even if forgiveness is not requested, one should still forgive and treat the offender properly, setting a righteous example.