CategoryDoctrine / Prayer and Mediation Term
Modern Equivalentprayer on behalf of others; one who pleads for another.
KJV Word TypeTheological noun / prayer term
DefinitionPrayer, pleading, or mediation on behalf of another person or group. In the New Testament, Christ and the Spirit are both described as making intercession.
Key Verses"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities... but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Romans 8:26); "Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them." (Hebrews 7:25)
KJV Usage NoteDescribes prayer or pleading on behalf of others, including the Spirit’s help in prayer and Christ’s ongoing priestly work for believers.
Common MisunderstandingIt is not merely giving advice or emotional support; in KJV usage it involves pleading or praying before God for another.
EtymologyFrom Latin intercedere ("to go between, intervene").