χρόνος

time, a particular time, season

Definition

In the New Testament, χρόνος (chronos) primarily refers to time as a measurable quantity or a specific duration, such as a period, season, or interval. It often denotes a span of time, as seen when Herod inquires about the 'time' the star appeared (Matthew 2:7) or in the parable of the talents where the master returns after a 'long time' (Matthew 25:19). It can also indicate a particular, appointed time or opportunity, as when Jesus says the disciples will fast 'in that day'—a specific time—rather than while the bridegroom is present (Mark 2:19-20). In some contexts, it simply means 'a while' or an indefinite period, such as the demon-possessed man having suffered 'for a long time' (Mark 9:21).

Biblical Usage

Χρόνος is used 53 times across the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Acts, and the Epistles. It frequently describes durations, whether long (Luke 8:27) or specific (Luke 1:57). In narrative contexts, it marks intervals (Acts 1:6-7) or seasons. In theological passages, it can relate to God's timing, as in Galatians 4:4 where 'the fullness of time' (χρόνος) refers to God's appointed moment for Christ's coming. The word is versatile but consistently centers on temporal measurement or designated periods.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek χρόνος, meaning 'time' as a flowing or successive duration. It is the root of English words like 'chronology' and 'chronic.' In classical Greek, it often contrasted with καιρός (kairos, G2540), which emphasizes a decisive or opportune moment, whereas χρόνος focuses more on sequential, quantifiable time. This basic sense carried into Koine Greek and the New Testament.

Semantic Range

Χρόνος is theologically significant as it relates to God's sovereignty over history and human experience of time. It underscores that God acts within and through temporal sequences, as in the 'fullness of time' (Galatians 4:4) for salvation. Understanding χρόνος enriches reading by highlighting how biblical narratives are framed within God's ordained timeline, contrasting human perceptions of duration with divine timing, and pointing to the patient unfolding of God's plan (2 Peter 3:8-9).

In the Greco-Roman world, time was often perceived cyclically or as a neutral medium. The New Testament's use of χρόνος, while sharing this general sense, is infused with a linear, purposive view from Jewish thought—time moving toward God's redemptive goals. Unlike modern precise clock-time, χρόνος in antiquity could be more fluid, referring to seasons, ages, or indefinite periods, emphasizing qualitative experience over mere quantification.

καιρός (kairos, G2540) — emphasizes a fitting or decisive moment, an opportunity, rather than mere duration. αἰών (aiōn, G165) — refers to an age, era, or eternity, a longer, often qualitative span of time. καιρός and χρόνος are sometimes paired (e.g., Acts 1:7) to cover both appointed times and general periods.

Word Details

Scripture References