The Greek word aḯdios, represented by G126, means everduring, translated as eternal or everlasting. It appears only 2 times in 2 verses, highlighting its specific and powerful application. The term signifies a quality that is everduring, whether looking forward and backward in time, or only forward.
In its biblical appearances, G126 is used to describe two distinct, unending realities. In Romans, it characterizes the nature of God, whose eternal power and Godhead have been clearly seen since the creation of the world Romans 1:20. In Jude, it describes the unending state of punishment for the angels who did not keep their first estate, who are held in everlasting chains until the judgment of the great day Jude 1:6.
Several related words provide context for the concept of permanence:
- G1411 dýnamis (force... specially, miraculous power...:--...power, strength...): This word for power is directly qualified by G126 in Romans 1:20, establishing that God's might is an eternal attribute, revealed since creation.
- G1199 desmón (a band... or shackle...:--...bond, chain...): In Jude 1:6, these chains are described as "everlasting," signifying a permanent and inescapable state of confinement for the fallen angels.
- G2217 zóphos (akin to the base of νέφος; gloom...:--blackness, darkness, mist): This term for darkness or gloom describes the environment where the everlasting chains bind the angels, emphasizing the nature of their perpetual punishment Jude 1:6.
The theological weight of G126 is significant, establishing concepts of both divine nature and divine judgment.
- Revelation of God's Eternal Nature: The term establishes that God's power G1411 and Godhead G2305 are eternal attributes. These invisible qualities are clearly understood through the visible creation Romans 1:20, leaving humanity "without excuse."
- The Perpetuity of Divine Judgment: G126 is used to describe the "everlasting chains" holding rebellious angels in darkness. This points to the unending and inescapable nature of God's judgment upon sin, reserved until the great day Jude 1:6.
- Contrast of Divine and Created States: The word starkly contrasts God's eternal existence with the fate of created beings who rebel. While God's power is eternally manifest, the punishment for angels who left their "first estate" is also described as everlasting.
In summary, G126 aḯdios is a rare but powerful term used to define that which is without end. Though used only twice, it carries immense theological weight by describing both the eternal nature of God's own power and the everlasting state of judgment reserved for those who rebel against Him. It serves to frame the concepts of divine attribute and divine consequence in terms of unending permanence.
TRV