ἑκάστοτε

at every time, always

Definition

ἑκάστοτε means 'at every time' or 'always,' conveying the idea of something happening on each and every occasion. It is an emphatic adverb that stresses the consistent, recurring nature of an action or state. In its single New Testament occurrence in 2 Peter 1:15, it modifies the apostle's intention to ensure his readers can recall his teachings 'at every time' after his departure, emphasizing ongoing, repeated access rather than a one-time event. This differs slightly from simpler temporal adverbs by highlighting a sequence of distinct moments.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 2 Peter 1:15. Here, Peter states his purpose to ensure that after his death, his audience will be able to recall his teachings 'at every time' (ἑκάστοτε). The context is apostolic legacy and the enduring availability of truthful instruction. Its usage underscores a pattern of habitual remembrance, fitting the epistle's themes of vigilance and holding fast to apostolic tradition.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective ἕκαστος (hekaštos, G1538), meaning 'each' or 'every,' combined with the suffix -τε, which often forms adverbs of time. Literally, it means 'at each time' or 'on every occasion.' It is a compound that intensifies the distributive sense of 'each' into a temporal framework, emphasizing repetition across individual instances.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, ἑκάστοτε carries theological weight in emphasizing the ongoing, accessible nature of apostolic teaching. In 2 Peter 1:15, it assures believers that truth is not locked in a past moment but is available for continual remembrance and application. This supports doctrines of scriptural sufficiency and the Holy Spirit's role in bringing teachings to mind (John 14:26), enriching Bible reading by highlighting God's provision for persistent spiritual nourishment.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of repeated, reliable instruction was valued in philosophical and educational settings. Peter's use of this term would resonate with audiences familiar with teachings meant for regular consultation and practice, contrasting with fleeting oral traditions. It aligns with Jewish wisdom traditions that stressed continual meditation on truth (Psalm 1:2), bridging cultural expectations of diligent, habitual learning.

πάντοτε (pantote, G3842) — means 'always' or 'at all times,' more general and continuous; ἑκάστοτε is more distributive, stressing 'at each and every occasion.' ἀεί (aei, G104) — means 'always' or 'perpetually,' often with a sense of unbroken continuity rather than repeated instances.

Word Details

Scripture References