### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **deúteros**, represented by `{{G1208}}`, is the ordinal word for **second**. It appears 47 times in 45 verses and is used to denote something that is second in time, place, or rank. Its meaning ranges from simply marking the next item in a sequence to signifying profound theological concepts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G1208}}` establishes order and sequence in various contexts. It is used to rank the commandments, where loving your neighbor as yourself is identified as the **second** great commandment [[Matthew 22:39]]. In the book of Revelation, it marks the progression of divine judgment, such as when the **second** angel sounds a trumpet [[Revelation 8:8]] or the **second** seal is opened [[Revelation 6:3]]. The word also signifies repetition, as when Jesus prays a **second time** in the garden [[Matthew 26:42]] or when the disciples are instructed to reject a heretic after a first and **second** admonition [[Titus 3:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of order and sequence:
* `{{G4413}}` **prōtos** (foremost (in time, place, order or importance)): As the word for "first," this is the natural counterpart to `{{G1208}}`. It is used to create a direct contrast, such as between the first man from the earth and the **second** man from heaven [[1 Corinthians 15:47]].
* `{{G5154}}` **trítos** (third; neuter (as noun) a third part, or (as adverb) a (or the) third time, thirdly): This word continues the numerical sequence, often appearing alongside "first" and "**second**" to list a series of beings or events, as with the four beasts in Revelation [[Revelation 4:7]].
* `{{G1364}}` **dís** (twice:--again, twice): This adverb specifies an action occurring two times. It is used in connection with Peter's denial, where the cock crows **twice**, with the **second** crowing marking the event [[Mark 14:72]].
* `{{G3825}}` **pálin** (again): This adverb reinforces the idea of repetition. It is frequently used with `{{G1208}}` to emphasize an action happening once more, as when Jesus questions Peter **again** the **second time** [[John 21:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1208}}` is significant, particularly when used in contrast to what is "first."
* **Covenant and Christology:** The word is used to distinguish the **second** covenant from the first. God takes away the first in order to establish the **second** [[Hebrews 10:9]]. This pattern is mirrored in the contrast between the first man, Adam, and the **second** man, who is Christ [[1 Corinthians 15:47]].
* **The Second Death:** A critical eschatological term, the "**second** death" describes the final judgment for the unbelieving [[Revelation 21:8]]. This final state of separation has no power over those who participate in the first resurrection [[Revelation 20:6]].
* **Christ's Return:** The term is used to describe the future coming of Christ. After being offered once for sins, he will appear a **second time** to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him [[Hebrews 9:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1208}}` is far more than a simple number. It functions as a crucial marker of sequence, rank, and repetition throughout Scripture. More profoundly, it underpins key biblical doctrines by distinguishing between the old and the new—the first covenant and the **second**, the first Adam and the **second** Adam (Christ), and ultimately, between physical death and the "**second** death."
TRV