νυνί

now, already, at present

Definition

The adverb νυνί (nyni) primarily means 'now' or 'at the present time,' but its usage in the New Testament carries nuanced emphases. It often marks a significant shift in time or a new state of affairs, especially highlighting the decisive change brought by Christ's work. For example, in Romans 3:21, it introduces the revelation of God's righteousness 'now' apart from the law. In a logical or inferential sense, it can mean 'now then' or 'therefore,' moving an argument forward, as seen in 1 Corinthians 5:11. It also appears in appeals to immediate action, emphasizing the urgency of the present moment.

Biblical Usage

Νυνί appears 21 times, predominantly in Paul's letters (especially Romans and 1 Corinthians). It is frequently used to contrast a previous condition with the new reality inaugurated by Christ. A key pattern is its use in soteriological contexts to mark the 'now' of salvation and new life, as in Romans 6:22 and 7:6. It also functions in practical exhortations, urging present action based on a new theological reality (1 Corinthians 5:11; 12:18).

Etymology

Νυνί is an emphatic form of the basic Greek adverb νῦν (nyn, G3568), meaning 'now.' The addition of the -ί suffix intensifies or makes more precise the temporal sense, often translating as 'just now,' 'at this very moment,' or 'as things now stand.' It is a common word in Koine Greek, used to stress immediacy or a definitive present circumstance.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it frequently marks the pivotal 'now' of the new covenant era. It underscores the inaugurated eschatology of the New Testament—the age of salvation and the Spirit has decisively begun in Christ. Understanding νυνί helps readers see the contrast between the old era of the law and sin and the new era of grace and freedom (Romans 3:21; 7:6), emphasizing the present availability and urgency of God's redemptive work.

In its Hellenistic cultural setting, νυνί was a common adverb for emphasizing the present moment in rhetoric and narrative. Its New Testament usage aligns with this but is infused with a distinct theological urgency, framing the present not just as a temporal point but as a divinely ordained epoch of fulfillment.

νῦν (nyn, G3568) — The simpler, more common adverb for 'now,' without the same emphatic force. ἄρτι (arti, G737) — Means 'now,' but often with a sense of 'just now' or 'at this very instant,' sometimes implying recentness or immediacy within a narrower timeframe.

Word Details

Scripture References