G3798

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word ὄψιος (opsios) primarily means “late” or “evening.” It describes a time of day that is often associated with twilight or dusk, indicating the latter part of the day. This term appears in Matthew 8:16, where it is used to denote the time when Jesus healed the sick after sunset. The word carries connotations of time passing and the approach of night, reflecting both a literal sense of lateness and a figurative implication of urgency in the context of actions and events.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: ὄψιος (opsios), pronounced [OP-see-os].

Etymology: The term is derived from the root word ὄψις (opsis), which means “sight” or “appearance.” The suffix -ιος (-ios) typically forms adjectives in Greek, suggesting that ὄψιος relates to the appearance of the evening or late time of day.

Part of Speech: Adjective; it describes a noun, specifically related to time.

Defining Meanings

Primary Meaning: Late; refers to the time of day that occurs in the evening or after the usual time.

Secondary Meaning: Evening; specifically denotes the latter part of the day as night approaches.

Tertiary Meaning: In a broader context, it can imply urgency or a need to act before darkness falls, often interpreted spiritually in biblical contexts as a call to be diligent or vigilant.

Exploring Similar Words

ὄψιμος (opsimos) [OP-see-mos]: This word also means “late” or “evening,” but it is often used in different contexts, such as describing late arrivals or occurrences, whereas ὄψιος specifically refers to the evening time.

νύξ (nyx) [neeks]: This term means “night.” While ὄψιος signifies the time leading up to night, νύξ refers to the time after sunset, encompassing the darkness that follows.

πρωῖμος (proimos) [PRO-ee-mos]: This word means “early” or “morning.” It contrasts with ὄψιος, as it refers to the time of day before noon, highlighting the different phases of the day.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Adjectives:

• Case, Number, Gender: ὄψιος is in the nominative case, used to describe a noun. It can be singular or plural and is typically masculine but can take different forms depending on the gender of the noun it modifies.

• Declension: It follows the pattern of Greek adjectives, adjusting its endings according to the gender and number of the noun it describes.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term ὄψιος carries important implications in both classical and New Testament contexts. In Matthew 8:16, it sets the stage for the miraculous healings performed by Jesus at dusk, emphasizing the urgency of His ministry and the response to human need. Various lexicons indicate that ὄψιος not only refers to a time of day but also evokes themes of waiting, anticipation, and the need to take action before darkness falls, metaphorically speaking.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 8:16: “When the evening [ὄψιος] was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick.”

Mark 1:32: “And at even [ὄψιος], when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.”

Luke 4:40: “Now when the sun was setting [ὄψιος], all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ὄψιος is used to describe the timing of events in the evening.

Example 1: Homer, Odyssey: “As the evening [ὄψιος] came, the heroes gathered for their nightly feasts.”

Example 2: Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “The discussions were held in the late hours [ὄψιος], reflecting on the day’s events.”

Example 3: Plutarch, Moralia: “In the evening [ὄψιος], the philosophers debated the nature of virtue.”

Septuagint Example 1: Genesis 1:5: “And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night [ὄψιος].”

Septuagint Example 2: Exodus 12:29: “And it came to pass, that at midnight [ὄψιος] the Lord smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt.”

Septuagint Example 3: Psalms 104:20: “Thou makest darkness, and it is night [ὄψιος], wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word ὄψιος encapsulates the essence of the evening, highlighting themes of time, urgency, and the transition from day to night. Its appearances in the New Testament serve to underscore the miraculous nature of Jesus’ ministry, reminding readers of the importance of responding to spiritual needs promptly.

Did You Know?

1. ὄψιος not only indicates lateness but also reflects the cultural significance of evening activities in ancient Greek society, where gatherings and discussions were common.

2. The word is often associated with pivotal moments in biblical narratives, emphasizing the timing of Jesus’ miracles and teachings.

3. Understanding ὄψιος enriches readers’ comprehension of biblical texts that focus on the significance of time and readiness in spiritual life.

Strong’s G3798: ὄψιος (opsios) conveys the meaning of “late” or “evening,” emphasizing urgency and the need for vigilance, significant in the context of Jesus’ ministry and spiritual readiness.