### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **gēráskō**, represented by `{{G1095}}`, means **to be senescent** or to **be (wax) old**. It is a specific term that appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its rarity highlights its use in describing a process of aging, whether applied to a person's life or to a theological system becoming obsolete.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G1095}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In John, it refers to physical aging, where Jesus tells Peter, "when thou shalt be **old**" [[John 21:18]], contrasting his youthful freedom with the dependence of his later years. The second use is theological, found in Hebrews, which states that by establishing a "new covenant," God has made the first one old. The author concludes that "that which decayeth and waxeth **old** `{{G1095}}` is ready to vanish away" [[Hebrews 8:13]], signifying the obsolescence of the former covenant.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of age and newness:
* `{{G3822}}` **palaióō**: This word means "to make (passively, become) worn out, or declare obsolete." It works in tandem with `{{G1095}}` in [[Hebrews 8:13]], where the first covenant is "made **old**" `{{G3822}}` and "decayeth" `{{G3822}}`. It is also used to describe how the heavens themselves "shall wax **old**" [[Hebrews 1:11]].
* `{{G3501}}` **néos**: Meaning "new" or "youthful," this term provides a direct contrast. In John's Gospel, Peter's future state of being "old" `{{G1095}}` is set against the time when he was **young** `{{G3501}}` [[John 21:18]]. This same word is used to describe the "new covenant" [[Hebrews 12:24]] that supersedes the old one.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1095}}` is primarily concentrated in its use in the book of Hebrews.
* **Covenantal Transition:** The term is critical for explaining the shift in redemptive history. By describing the first covenant as one that "waxeth **old**" [[Hebrews 8:13]], the author establishes its temporary nature and prepares for its replacement.
* **The Process of Obsolescence:** Unlike a sudden declaration, `{{G1095}}` implies a process of becoming old. This frames the end of the first covenant not as an abrupt failure but as a planned obsolescence, making way for something new as intended by God.
* **Personal and Systematic Aging:** The word uniquely connects the physical aging of a person [[John 21:18]] with the theological "aging" of a covenantal system [[Hebrews 8:13]], using the same concept of senescence to mark the end of an era.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1095}}` is a precise and potent term. Though used only twice, it effectively captures the idea of a terminal process of aging. It applies literally to the end of a man's youthful autonomy and figuratively to the end of a covenant's efficacy. Through `{{G1095}}`, scripture marks the inevitable passing of the old to make way for the new, both in human life and in God's divine plan.
TRV