νῦν

now, already, at present

Definition

The adverb νῦν (nyn) primarily means 'now' and functions in three key ways in the New Testament. First, it denotes present time, indicating the immediate moment or current state of affairs, as in Jesus's statement about the severity of tribulation 'now' in Matthew 24:21. Second, it can carry a logical or inferential force, meaning 'therefore' or 'so then,' introducing a conclusion or a new step in an argument, such as in appeals or exhortations. Third, it is used in eschatological contexts to mark a decisive shift in God's plan, highlighting the 'now' of salvation and fulfillment in Christ, contrasting with the 'then' of the old age.

Biblical Usage

νῦν is used frequently across the New Testament, appearing in narrative, discourse, and epistolary literature. It often marks a pivotal moment in a story or argument. In the Gospels, it frequently highlights the immediacy of events surrounding Jesus's ministry and passion (e.g., Matthew 26:65; Mark 15:32). In the epistles, especially Paul's writings, it is used to contrast the present age of grace and fulfillment in Christ with the past, as seen in passages discussing the 'now' of justification or the indwelling Spirit. Luke 1:48 uses it to mark the blessed state Mary enters 'from now on.'

Etymology

νῦν is a primary adverb of present time in Greek, derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *nu- meaning 'now.' It is a cognate with the Latin 'nunc' and the English 'now.' Its meaning in Koine Greek remained stable, covering both temporal immediacy and logical inference, a usage fully inherited by New Testament authors.

Semantic Range

νῦν is theologically significant as it often marks the decisive in-breaking of God's kingdom and the new era of salvation inaugurated by Jesus Christ. It underscores the 'already' aspect of eschatology—the fulfillment of promises is happening 'now' in the person and work of Jesus (e.g., 2 Corinthians 6:2). Understanding this temporal marker helps readers see the urgency of the gospel call and the present reality of redemption, contrasting the old covenant with the new covenant established in Christ.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'now' (νῦν) carried a similar sense of immediacy and present consequence as it does today. However, in Jewish and early Christian apocalyptic thought, 'now' could take on a heightened, covenantal significance, marking the critical moment of God's intervention in history. This infused the word with a theological weight beyond mere chronological time, signaling a turning point in the divine narrative.

ἄρτι (arti, G737) — emphasizes the immediate 'just now,' often with a sense of the recent past or present contrasted with the future. νυνί (nyni, G3570) — an emphatic form of νῦν, often used in logical or inferential contexts. σήμερον (sēmeron, G4594) — means 'today,' specifying the current day as a unit of time.

Word Details

Scripture References