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Introduction
Understanding the Greek word καιρός (kairos) is crucial in Biblical studies due to its profound implications for interpreting Scripture. Unlike the more common Greek word χρόνος (chronos), which refers to chronological or sequential time, καιρός signifies a moment or season that is ripe with purpose, opportunity, or significance. This word is essential for grasping the layers of meaning in New Testament texts and ancient Greek culture, where time is perceived not just as a linear progression but as a series of divine moments.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: καιρός, transliterated as kairos, pronounced [KAI-ros].
- Etymology: Likely derived from a root word meaning “to fix” or “to determine,” indicating a fixed or appointed time.
- Part of Speech: Noun, masculine; second declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- An appointed time or season
- An opportune or favorable moment
- A decisive point or critical period
Similar Words: χρόνος (chronos) [KHRON-os], meaning “time” in a general or chronological sense, differs from καιρός in that chronos represents measured time, while kairos signifies the right or opportune moment. Another related word is ώρα (hora) [HO-ra], which means “hour” and is more about a specific point in time rather than a significant or opportune moment.
Further Insights: καιρός is a second declension masculine noun, following the typical patterns of Greek grammar. Its significance often comes from its contextual usage, particularly in conveying moments of divine intervention or purpose. Unlike chronos, which measures the passage of time, καιρός emphasizes the quality and significance of a particular moment or period.
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | καιρός | καιροί |
| Genitive | καιροῦ | καιρῶν |
| Dative | καιρῷ | καιροῖς |
| Accusative | καιρόν | καιρούς |
| Vocative | καιρέ | καιροί |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Describes καιρός as a “fixed or special occasion,” emphasizing its use in divine or significant moments.
- Thayers: Interprets καιρός as a season or proper time, often related to God’s ordained events in Scripture.
- Vines: Defines it as a critical time, highlighting its contrast with chronos, which is continuous time.
- LSJ: Offers insights into its classical usage, showing that καιρός is often related to opportunity and suitability in timing.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Notes that καιρός is used 86 times in the New Testament to refer to opportune times or seasons appointed by God.
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Related Scripture References
- Mark 1:15: “The time [καιρός] is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
- Galatians 6:9: “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season [καιρῷ] we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
- Ecclesiastes 3:1 (Septuagint): “To everything there is a season [καιρός], and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text with Greek word |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Phaedrus | “There is a proper season (καιρός) for every action.” |
| Aristotle | Rhetoric | “Kairos (καιρός) is the right or opportune moment in argument.” |
| Septuagint | Ecclesiastes (LXX) | “To everything there is a season (καιρός), and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” |
Summary of καιρός (G2540)
καιρός (kairos) is a critical term in Greek that captures the concept of the “right moment” or an “appointed time.” It transcends the idea of linear time (chronos) to focus on moments filled with significance and purpose. This word is often used in the New Testament to indicate divine timing or opportunities for action. Understanding καιρός deepens our appreciation of biblical texts and their cultural context, revealing a view of time that is dynamic and filled with meaning.
Did You Know?
- καιρός is used over 80 times in the New Testament, indicating its significance in conveying divine timing.
- The word has influenced Christian theology, particularly in understanding God’s timing and human response.
- In modern Greek, καιρός can also mean “weather,” showing its evolution in the language.
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