neuter of a compound of διά and a derivative of an alternate of φέρω; carried through, i.e. (adverbially with εἰς and ὁ prefixed) perpetually:--+ continually, for ever.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G1336 (διηνεκής, *diēnekḗs*) is a compound term derived from the preposition διά (dia), meaning "through" or "by means of," and a derivative of φέρω (pherō), meaning "to carry" or "to bear." Etymologically, it conveys the sense of "carried through" or "borne through to completion." In its nuanced usage within the New Testament, particularly when employed with the prepositions εἰς τὸ (eis to), it functions adverbially to denote a state of perpetual duration, continuity, or permanence. Its core semantic range thus encompasses concepts such as "continually," "perpetually," "for ever," "without interruption," and "to the end." It emphasizes an action or state that is not merely ongoing but has reached a definitive, enduring quality, signifying completeness in its temporal scope.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G1336 appears exclusively in the Epistle to the Hebrews, where its usage is pivotal for understanding the author's theological argument concerning the superiority of Christ's priesthood and sacrifice.
In [[Hebrews 7:3]], διηνεκής is used to describe Melchizedek's priesthood as a type of Christ's, stating that he "remains a priest forever" (εἰς τὸ διηνεκές). This establishes a foundational concept of an enduring, non-transferable priesthood, contrasting with the Levitical system where priests served for a limited time and were succeeded by others.
The word's significance is most pronounced in Hebrews chapter 10, where it is used to highlight the stark contrast between the Old Covenant sacrifices and Christ's singular offering.
In [[Hebrews 10:1]], the author notes that the Law, with its "same sacrifices that are continually offered every year" (διηνεκές), could never make perfect those who drew near. Here, διηνεκές describes the *repeated* and *ongoing* nature of the Old Covenant sacrifices, emphasizing their inherent inadequacy and inability to achieve final atonement. The sacrifices had to be offered *continually* precisely because they were not *efficacious* for all time.
Conversely, in [[Hebrews 10:12]], Christ's sacrifice is described: "But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God," (εἰς τὸ διηνεκές). The phrase εἰς τὸ διηνεκές here signifies the *perpetual efficacy* and *eternal finality* of Christ's single sacrifice. It was "carried through" to such a complete and perfect extent that it requires no repetition. His session at God's right hand is the divine affirmation of this accomplished, enduring work.
Finally, [[Hebrews 10:14]] reiterates this profound truth: "For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified" (εἰς τὸ διηνεκές). This verse underscores that the "perfection" (τετελείωκεν) achieved by Christ's "single offering" (μιᾷ προσφορᾷ) is not temporary but εἰς τὸ διηνεκές—lasting for all time, eternally valid for believers.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept conveyed by G1336 is deeply intertwined with several other significant biblical terms and theological ideas, particularly within the book of Hebrews.
* ἅπαξ (hapax) `{{G530}}`: Meaning "once for all" or "once and for all." This term often appears in conjunction with the idea of Christ's sacrifice, emphasizing its non-repeatable nature, which is a direct consequence of its διηνεκής efficacy. For example, Christ's sacrifice was offered ἅπαξ [[Hebrews 9:26]], leading to a διηνεκής perfection.
* αἰώνιος (aiōnios) `{{G166}}`: Meaning "eternal" or "everlasting." While διηνεκής focuses on an uninterrupted duration or continuous state that is "carried through," αἰώνιος speaks to the quality of eternity itself, often in relation to God's nature or the ultimate destiny of things. Christ's διηνεκής priesthood and sacrifice are intrinsically linked to His αἰώνιος nature and the αἰώνιος salvation He secured.
* τελειόω (teleioō) `{{G5048}}` / τελείωσις (teleiōsis) `{{G5050}}`: Meaning "to make perfect" or "perfection." The διηνεκής nature of Christ's sacrifice is precisely what enables Him to "perfect for all time" those who are being sanctified [[Hebrews 10:14]]. This perfection is not a state of sinless impeccability in the believer but a complete and lasting standing before God, having been fully atoned for and consecrated.
* The concept of "perpetual priesthood" and "eternal redemption" are theological constructs directly supported and illuminated by the meaning of G1336.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G1336 (διηνεκής) is profound and central to the unique message of the Epistle to the Hebrews. It serves as a linchpin for understanding the radical superiority and definitive finality of the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ.
Firstly, διηνεκής emphatically highlights the *absolute sufficiency* of Christ's sacrifice. Unlike the Old Covenant sacrifices, which were διηνεκές in their *continual repetition* due to their inherent inadequacy, Christ's single offering is εἰς τὸ διηνεκές because it perfectly and completely accomplished atonement. This means the debt of sin has been fully paid, "carried through" to its ultimate resolution, requiring no further payment or propitiation.
Secondly, the term underscores the *perpetual efficacy* of Christ's work. His priesthood is διηνεκής [[Hebrews 7:3]], signifying that His intercessory role on behalf of believers is unending and eternally active. Similarly, the perfection achieved for believers by His sacrifice is διηνεκές [[Hebrews 10:14]], meaning that their standing before God, having been cleansed and consecrated, is permanent and irreversible. This brings immense assurance to the believer, knowing that their access to God is secured not by their own fluctuating merit but by Christ's unwavering, completed work.
Thirdly, διηνεκής reinforces the *contrast between the shadows and the reality*. The Old Covenant rituals were temporary shadows that pointed to a greater reality. Christ, as the substance, fulfills and supersedes these shadows with a διηνεκής reality—a sacrifice and priesthood that are eternally valid and effective, bringing true and lasting perfection.
### Summary
G1336 (διηνεκής), meaning "carried through" and denoting "perpetual" or "for ever," is a crucial term in the Epistle to the Hebrews. It serves as a powerful descriptor for the enduring nature and complete efficacy of Jesus Christ's work as High Priest and His singular sacrifice. In stark contrast to the διηνεκές (continual) yet insufficient sacrifices of the Old Covenant, Christ's offering is εἰς τὸ διηνεκές—a "once for all" act that perpetually perfects believers and establishes His διηνεκές (everlasting) priesthood. The word thus encapsulates the finality, permanence, and absolute sufficiency of Christ's atonement, providing the foundation for the believer's eternal access to God and their lasting sanctification.
TRV