Pronunciation Guide: hah-mah (ˈhämä)

Basic Definition

Strong’s G260: ἅμα is an adverb that expresses simultaneous action or occurrence, meaning “at the same time” or “together with.” It conveys the idea of perfect timing, unity, and concurrent events. The word emphasizes the harmonious coordination of multiple elements or actions occurring at precisely the same moment.

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Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Adverb
• Root: Proto-Indo-European *sem- (“one, together”)
• Language Origin: Classical Greek
• Primary Usage: Narrative passages and epistolary literature
• Common in both Classical and Koine Greek
• Frequently used in prepositional phrases

ἅμα Morphology:

• ἅμα (adverbial form) – at the same time
• ἅμα σύν (prepositional phrase) – together with
• ἅμα τῷ (temporal construction) – as soon as

Origin & History

The word ἅμα has deep roots in classical Greek literature, where it served as a precise marker of simultaneous action. In Homer’s Iliad, it frequently appears to describe coordinated military movements and divine interventions occurring in perfect synchronization. Xenophon employed it in his Anabasis to detail the precise timing of military maneuvers.

The term maintained its meaning of simultaneous action throughout the development of Greek language, but gained additional nuances in Hellenistic literature. In philosophical works, particularly those of Plato, ἅμα was used to express logical simultaneity and the concurrent existence of ideas or concepts.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Simultaneous occurrence of events or actions
• Together with (when followed by dative case)
• At the very moment when
• In union with or in company with
• Immediately upon

ἅμα Translation Options:

• “At the same time” – Best for contexts emphasizing temporal simultaneity
• “Together with” – Optimal when expressing accompaniment or unity
• “The moment that” – Effective for immediate sequence of events
• “Simultaneously” – Useful for technical or precise descriptions
• “Along with” – Suitable for casual or informal contexts

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, ἅμα appears 10 times, often in contexts emphasizing divine timing and the coordination of spiritual truths or events. Its first appearance in Matthew 13:29 relates to the parable of the wheat and tares, where the master warns against premature judgment to avoid simultaneous destruction of both wheat and tares.

The apostle Paul employs ἅμα with particular theological significance in his epistles, using it to describe the concurrent operation of spiritual realities or the simultaneous transformation of believers. This usage highlights the mysterious nature of God’s work in accomplishing multiple purposes at once.

• “No,” he answered, “because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat along with [ἅμα] them.” Matthew 13:29
• “After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with [ἅμα σὺν] them in the clouds.” 1 Thessalonians 4:17
• “For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which is come unto you, as [ἅμα] it is in all the world.” Colossians 1:5-6

Cultural Insights

In ancient Jewish thought, the concept of divine timing was crucial to understanding יהוה (Yahweh)’s sovereignty. The Greek ἅμα beautifully captures this Hebrew mindset of God’s perfect orchestration of events. This corresponds to the Hebrew concept of מועד (mo’ed), appointed times, where multiple elements converge at exactly the right moment according to divine purpose.

The word carries special significance in ancient Mediterranean culture, where precision in timing was seen as a mark of divine intervention. Greek military strategists and philosophers alike recognized the power of simultaneous action, making ἅμα a word that bridged practical and philosophical realms.

Theological Significance

The use of ἅμα in Scripture reveals the magnificent orchestration of God’s redemptive plan. It points to His ability to work multiple aspects of His will simultaneously, whether in judgment or blessing. This demonstrates His omnipotence and perfect wisdom in timing every event according to His purpose.

The word particularly shines in eschatological contexts, where it describes the simultaneous transformation of believers at the return of the Messiah. This usage reveals that God’s timing is perfect not only in historical events but also in future promises, showing His sovereignty over all time.

This concept of divine simultaneity also reflects the nature of the Trinity, where Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work in perfect harmony and timing, never operating independently but always in perfect coordination.

Personal Application

Understanding ἅμα challenges us to trust God’s perfect timing in our lives. When we face situations that seem chaotic or poorly timed, we can remember that God is orchestrating multiple elements simultaneously for our good and His glory. This word reminds us that He is never late, never early, but always perfectly on time.

Just as ἅμα points to the precise coordination of divine action, we are called to align our timing with God’s, waiting patiently for His perfect moment rather than rushing ahead or lagging behind His purposes.

Related Words

• ὁμοῦ (homou) – together, at the same place/time – emphasizes spatial proximity rather than temporal simultaneity. See G3674
• εὐθύς (euthys) – immediately, straightway – focuses on immediacy rather than simultaneity. See G2112
• σύν (syn) – together with – emphasizes accompaniment more than timing. See G4862
• καιρός (kairos) – appointed time – focuses on the right moment rather than simultaneous action. See G2540

Did you Know?

• In modern Greek, ἅμα is still used today with essentially the same meaning as in New Testament times, showing the enduring precision of this concept in Greek thought.
• The word appears in ancient Greek mathematical texts to describe concurrent geometric properties, highlighting its precision in technical contexts.
• In the Septuagint, ἅμα often translates Hebrew words expressing unity and togetherness, bridging Hebrew and Greek concepts of divine timing.

Remember This

ἅμα reminds us that in God’s economy, nothing is random – every moment is divinely orchestrated in perfect harmony with His eternal purpose.