Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies as it reveals deeper meanings embedded in the original texts. The Greek word ἑσπέρα (hespera) is particularly significant because it refers to “evening.” This term frequently appears in the New Testament to indicate times of day, significant moments, or the transition from one day to the next. Its usage offers insights into Jewish and early Christian practices, such as Sabbath observance, as well as general daily life in ancient Greek culture. Understanding ἑσπέρα helps readers grasp the nuances of time and events as described in Biblical narratives.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἑσπέρα (hespera) [hes-PEH-rah]
• Etymology: Derived from the root ἕσπερος (hesperos), meaning “evening” or “western.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine); first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Evening: The period of time at the end of the day, typically considered to begin around sunset.
• Western: Relating to the direction of the setting sun, often associated with evening.

Similar Words: ὄψιος (opsios) [OP-see-os] is another Greek word that also means “evening.” While ἑσπέρα (hespera) often denotes the broader time period of evening, ὄψιος (opsios) can specifically refer to the “late” part of the day or early night. Both words can be used interchangeably, but ἑσπέρα is more frequently used in a general sense.

Further Insights: ἑσπέρα (hespera) is a first declension feminine noun. Below is the full declension chart for ἑσπέρα:

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἑσπέρα is defined as “evening.” BDAG emphasizes its usage in the New Testament to denote the time from late afternoon to sunset. It often appears in contexts where events take place after the day’s work is done or where the setting of the sun marks the beginning of a new day according to Jewish reckoning.

Thayer’s: Notes that ἑσπέρα is used to mean “evening” and provides specific examples from the New Testament, including the accounts of evening meals, gatherings, and Jesus’ activities in the evening. Thayer’s elaborates on its significance in the context of Jewish customs and daily practices.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on ἑσπέρα as “evening,” highlighting its importance in understanding time references in the New Testament. Vine’s mentions that ἑσπέρα is often used in conjunction with the Sabbath and other key events, providing a framework for understanding daily rhythms in Biblical times.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists ἑσπέρα as “evening” and also as “western” when referring to the direction associated with the setting sun. LSJ provides examples from classical literature where the term is used to describe the time of day, directions, or poetic imagery related to sunset.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἑσπέρα as “evening,” highlighting its occurrences in various New Testament passages where significant events, such as miracles or teachings of Jesus, occur in the evening.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 14:15: “When it was evening [ἑσπέρα], the disciples came to Him, saying, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food.'”
• Mark 1:32: “At evening [ἑσπέρα], when the sun had set, they brought to Him all who were sick and those who were demon-possessed.”
• John 20:19: “Then, the same day at evening [ἑσπέρα], being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.'”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of ἑσπέρα (G2073)

In summary, ἑσπέρα (hespera) is a Greek noun meaning “evening,” frequently used in the New Testament and classical Greek literature to indicate the time of day between late afternoon and nightfall. The term also has connotations related to the western direction, where the sun sets. Understanding ἑσπέρα provides valuable insights into the daily life, practices, and cultural context of ancient times, as well as the specific timing of events described in Biblical texts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that in Jewish culture, the day was considered to begin at sunset, which made ἑσπέρα (hespera), or evening, a significant marker in daily life and religious practices? This is why many important events in the New Testament, such as the beginning of the Sabbath and evening gatherings, are carefully noted by the Gospel writers. Understanding the significance of evening in Biblical narratives helps in grasping the context of events that unfolded during this time of day.