### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ékpalai**, represented by `{{G1597}}`, is an adverb derived from ἐκ and πάλαι, meaning **long ago, for a long while**. Though it only appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, it is used to convey a sense of ancient origin and long-established reality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G1597}}` establish significant bookends of time. In [[2 Peter 3:5]], it is translated as "**of old**" to describe the primeval creation of the heavens and the earth by the word of God. In contrast, [[2 Peter 2:3]] uses the phrase "**of a long time**" to describe the pre-ordained judgment for false teachers, emphasizing that their condemnation is not a recent development and is certain to come.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use of `{{G1597}}`:
* `{{G691}}` **argéō** (to delay): This word appears in [[2 Peter 2:3]], stating that the judgment which has been determined for a long time does not **linger**.
* `{{G3573}}` **nystázō** (to fall asleep; figuratively, to delay): Used alongside `argéō`, this word emphasizes that the "damnation **slumbereth** not" [[2 Peter 2:3]].
* `{{G4921}}` **synistáō** (to set together... to constitute): In the creation narrative, this word is used to describe the earth **standing out** of the water, an event that happened "**of old**" [[2 Peter 3:5]].
* `{{G2990}}` **lanthánō** (to lie hid... be ignorant of): This verb is used to show that people are willingly **ignorant of** the fact that the heavens were created **of old** [[2 Peter 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1597}}` is tied to the concepts of divine timing and certainty.
* **Antiquity of God's Word:** The term is used to assert that the heavens and earth were formed "**of old**" by God's word [[2 Peter 3:5]]. This points to the foundational, long-standing power and reality of God's creative acts, a truth that some are willfully ignorant of.
* **Certainty of Divine Judgment:** In its second usage, the word establishes that judgment for the ungodly is not an afterthought. It has been set for "**a long time**," and its arrival is sure, as it does not linger or slumber [[2 Peter 2:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1597}}` is a concise term that carries significant meaning about God's relationship with time. It simultaneously looks back to the distant past of creation and underscores the long-standing, unwavering nature of divine judgment. The word affirms that God's plans, whether for creation or for justice, are established and sure.
TRV