### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aiṓnios**, represented by `{{G166}}`, describes that which is **perpetual** or **everlasting**. It appears 71 times across 69 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from αἰών, it is used to describe time that is both past and future, signifying a continuous, unending state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G166}}` is most frequently used to describe the **life** given by God through Christ to believers [[John 3:16]]. This "everlasting **life**" is a central promise, presented as a gift that is received through faith [[Romans 6:23]]. The term also qualifies the eternal nature of God's actions and attributes, such as his "eternal **glory**" [[1 Peter 5:10]], the "eternal **redemption**" obtained by Christ [[Hebrews 9:12]], and the "everlasting **covenant**" established through his blood [[Hebrews 13:20]]. Conversely, it describes the unending consequences of judgment, including "everlasting **punishment**" [[Matthew 25:46]] and "eternal **fire**" [[Matthew 25:41]]. The word also references a time before human history, as God's purpose and grace were given "before the world **began**" [[Titus 1:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of perpetuity and its consequences:
* `{{G2288}}` **thánatos** (death): This word serves as the direct opposite of eternal life. Scripture explicitly contrasts the two, stating that the wages of sin is **death**, but the gift of God is **eternal** life [[Romans 6:23]].
* `{{G3085}}` **lýtrōsis** (redemption): This concept is qualified by `{{G166}}`, showing the lasting effect of Christ's work. Christ entered the holy place having obtained "eternal **redemption**" for believers [[Hebrews 9:12]].
* `{{G861}}` **aphtharsía** (incorruptibility): This describes a quality of the unending existence believers seek. Those who patiently seek glory, honour, and **immortality** will receive **eternal** life [[Romans 2:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G166}}` is immense, framing the scope of both salvation and judgment.
* **The Gift of Eternal Life:** `{{G166}}` is foundational to the promise of salvation. It is a gift of God [[Romans 6:23]], granted to those who **believe** on the Son [[John 3:36]], and is defined as knowing the one **true** God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent [[John 17:3]].
* **The Permanence of Judgment:** The word underscores the finality of divine judgment. Just as the righteous enter into **life** eternal, the unrighteous are consigned to "everlasting **punishment**" [[Matthew 25:46]]. Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit leads to "eternal **damnation**" [[Mark 3:29]].
* **The Scope of God's Plan:** The term extends beyond the future, describing God's pre-temporal purpose and grace given "before the world **began**" [[2 Timothy 1:9]]. It also defines the unending nature of Christ's **salvation** [[Hebrews 5:9]] and his "everlasting **kingdom**" [[2 Peter 1:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G166}}` is a critical term that defines the perpetual nature of both God's promises and His judgments. It describes a quality of existence that comes from God, whether it is the **everlasting** life offered to the faithful or the **everlasting** destruction facing the unrepentant. By denoting a state that is unending and timeless, **aiṓnios** is essential for understanding the biblical concepts of salvation, judgment, and the eternal scope of God's plan.
TRV