ὥρα

an hour, season

Definition

The Greek word ὥρα primarily denotes a fixed or appointed time, often translated as 'hour' or 'season.' In its most literal sense, it refers to a specific hour of the day, as in Matthew 20:3, 6, 9, where it describes the third, sixth, and ninth hours of the workday. More broadly, it signifies a decisive moment or period of time, such as a 'season' for harvest (Matthew 13:30) or a critical juncture, like the 'hour' of Jesus's passion (John 12:23, 27). It can also indicate a relatively short, indefinite period, as seen in phrases like 'in that hour' when a miracle occurs (e.g., Matthew 8:13, 9:22).

Biblical Usage

ὥρα appears throughout the New Testament, with significant usage in the Gospels (especially Matthew and John) and Revelation. In the Gospels, it frequently marks the timing of miracles, teachings, or eschatological events (e.g., Matthew 24:44, 50; John 4:21, 23). John's Gospel particularly uses it to refer to the appointed time of Jesus's glorification and suffering (John 2:4, 12:23, 17:1). Revelation employs it for moments of divine judgment (Revelation 3:10, 14:7). The word is versatile, appearing in narrative, discourse, and apocalyptic contexts.

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *yōr-ā, related to concepts of time and year. In classical Greek, ὥρα originally meant 'season' or 'the right time,' and by extension, any fixed period. This developed into the more specific sense of 'hour' as a division of the day. The New Testament usage retains this breadth, encompassing both precise hours and significant, appointed times.

Semantic Range

ὥρα is theologically significant as it often points to God's sovereign timing, especially regarding salvation history and eschatology. In John's Gospel, Jesus's 'hour' is a central theme—the divinely appointed time for his crucifixion, resurrection, and glorification (John 7:30, 8:20, 12:27, 13:1). This underscores that Jesus's mission unfolds according to the Father's plan. The word also relates to eschatological urgency, calling believers to be prepared for the 'hour' of judgment or the Lord's return (Matthew 24:44, 1 John 2:18). Understanding its range—from a clock hour to a pivotal moment—enriches reading by highlighting the interplay between human time and divine appointment.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, the 'hour' was a flexible concept, as precise timekeeping was less rigid than today. Daytime was divided into twelve seasonal hours (longer in summer, shorter in winter), measured by sundials or water clocks. The New Testament often references these divisions (e.g., the third, sixth, ninth hours). More importantly, ὥρα carried a sense of opportunity or crisis—a 'right time' for action. This differs from a modern, purely chronological view, emphasizing qualitative, kairotic moments ordained by God.

καιρός (kairos, G2540) — emphasizes a fitting or opportune time, a decisive moment, whereas ὥρα can be more neutral or chronological. χρόνος (chronos, G5550) — refers to sequential, linear time or a duration, while ὥρα often indicates a specific point or season within that duration.

Word Details

Scripture References