Time
Time Definition
NAS Word Usage – Total: 41
- a valuing by which the price is fixed
- of the price itself
- of the price paid or received for a person or thing bought or sold
- honour which belongs or is shown to one
- of the honour which one has by reason of rank and state of office which he holds
- deference, reverence
What Does Time Mean in Greek in Context of the Bible?
When we talk about time in the context of the Bible, it’s fascinating to note that the Greeks had two main words for time: “chronos” and “kairos.” Understanding these terms helps us appreciate how time is perceived in biblical texts. In this article, we will break down these concepts and their implications for both ancient audiences and contemporary readers.
The Greek Words for Time
Chronos: Measurable Time
“Chronos” (χρόνος) is the Greek word that refers to time as a measurable quantity. It is the kind of time we track on clocks and calendars. This word is where we derive our term “chronology,” which is the ordering of events in time.
In the Bible, “chronos” often indicates specific points in time or durations, such as the passing of days, months, or years. For example, in Luke 8:1, the passage mentions, “After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him.” Here, the context of “chronos” refers to the time Jesus spends traveling.
Kairos: God’s Appointed Time
In contrast, “kairos” (καιρός) refers to the opportune or right moment. It’s more qualitative than quantitative. “Kairos” represents a moment filled with significance and purpose—a divine appointment, if you will. In the context of the Bible, “kairos” is often used to indicate moments when God acts in history, or when a significant event occurs.
A classic biblical example of “kairos” can be found in Galatians 4:4, which states, “But when the set time (kairos) had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman.” This passage emphasizes the importance of timing in God’s plan of salvation, suggesting that Jesus’s birth was not merely a matter of chronos, but an event laden with profound significance.
The Interaction of Chronos and Kairos
It’s essential to understand that “chronos” and “kairos” can coexist in our lives. While “chronos” refers to the passage of time, there are moments infused with “kairos” that demand our attention. For instance, a birthday may simply mark “chronos,” the passing of another year. But if that birthday is a milestone—perhaps a coming-of-age or a significant transition—it becomes a “kairos” moment.
The Gospel of John illustrates this interaction beautifully. In John 2:1-11, we see the story of Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding. When His mother tells Him they have no more wine, Jesus responds, “My hour (kairos) has not yet come.” This verse shows that while chronos can depict the time of day, kairos reveals the critical nature of the moment within God’s plan.
The Significance of Time in Biblical Theology
God’s Sovereignty Over Time
In biblical theology, time is often viewed through the lens of God’s sovereignty. The Bible presents God as eternal and outside of time, yet intimately involved in the timeline of human history. For instance, in Psalm 90:4, it is said, “For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.” This verse captures the notion that God’s perspective on time is vastly different from ours.
Understanding this can change how we perceive the timing of events in our lives. We may feel hurried or anxious about our personal timelines, but trusting in God’s perfect timing can bring us peace.
The Role of Time in Spiritual Growth
Time also plays a crucial role in spiritual growth and maturity. In Galatians 6:9, believers are encouraged not to grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time (kairos), they will reap a harvest if they do not give up. Here, the message is clear: spiritual growth is often a process that requires patience.
Time gives a chance for faith to develop. Just as a seed needs time to germinate and grow, our spiritual lives require time to deepen and mature.
The End Times: A Future Reality
In the New Testament, time takes on another dimension concerning the end times. The concept of “last days” is often portrayed using the term “eschaton,” which comes from the Greek word “eschatos” (ἔσχατος), meaning “last.” This reflects God’s ultimate plan for humanity and the culmination of history in Christ.
Understanding the biblical timeline helps Christians to remain hopeful and vigilant. Scriptures such as Matthew 24:36 remind us that no one knows the exact time (chronos) of Christ’s return, reinforcing that we should live each day with purpose, aware of God’s coming kingdom.
Cultural Context of Time in the Ancient World
Greek and Jewish Perceptions
In ancient Greek culture, “chronos” often dominated everyday life. Keeping track of time was vital, particularly in public events and commerce. The Greeks were known for their philosophical inquiries into the nature of time. Their literature often explored time’s transient nature.
Conversely, Jewish culture, which heavily influenced the New Testament, viewed time in terms of God’s covenant and festivals. “Kairos” would resonate more deeply within Jewish traditions, as many celebrations mark God’s intervention in history. Passover, for example, commemorates a divine moment of deliverance.
The Impact of Greek Philosophy
Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle offered rich discussions about time’s nature, contributing to the broader understanding of time in ancient Mediterranean cultures. While Plato viewed time as a moving image of eternity, Aristotle emphasized that time is dependent on motion and change.
These philosophical views influenced early Christian theologians who tried to reconcile science, philosophy, and faith. The church’s teachings on time reflect both Greek and Jewish elements, contributing to a more multifaceted understanding of time in Christian doctrine.
Conclusion
The meaning of time in the Greek context of the Bible encompasses both the measurable aspects of “chronos” and the significant moments found in “kairos.” Together, they shape our understanding of the unfolding narrative of faith throughout history and within each of our lives today. By examining these concepts, we deepen our appreciation for how God interacts with time and us.
As we reflect on our own lives, remembering the importance of both types of time can help us embrace our experiences more fully, recognizing that every day holds potential for divine significance.
Common Questions Related to What Does Time Mean In Greek In Context Of The Bible
Q. What is the difference between chronos and kairos?
A. Chronos refers to measurable time, while kairos indicates significant moments filled with purpose.
Q. How does the Bible use the concept of time?
A. The Bible uses time to highlight God’s sovereignty, spiritual growth, and important events in salvation history.
Q. What does chronos represent in the Bible?
A. Chronos represents the passage of time, often indicating specific moments or durations in biblical narratives.
Q. Can you give an example of kairos in the Bible?
A. An example of kairos is found in Galatians 4:4, where it speaks of the appointed time when Jesus was sent.
Q. Why is understanding time important for believers?
A. Understanding time helps believers trust in God’s timing and recognize the significance of moments in their spiritual journey.
Q. How does philosophical thought influence biblical teaching on time?
A. Greek philosophy contributed concepts about the nature of time that early theologians reconciled with biblical teachings.
Q. How is time depicted in the book of Revelation?
A. In Revelation, time is often connected with prophetic events and the anticipation of Christ’s return.
Q. What does Psalm 90:4 tell us about God’s view of time?
A. Psalm 90:4 suggests that God’s perspective on time is vastly different from human experience; what seems long to us is brief to Him.
Q. How should believers approach time in their lives?
A. Believers should approach time with patience, recognizing that spiritual growth takes time and that every moment can hold significance.
Q. What role does patience play in understanding time biblically?
A. Patience is essential as spiritual growth requires time, and trusting in God’s timing can prevent weariness in doing good.