### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **éleusis**, represented by `{{G1660}}`, signifies an **advent** or **coming**. This term is highly specific, appearing just **1 time** in a single verse in the New Testament. Its sole usage points to a significant, foretold arrival, establishing a direct link between Old Testament prophecy and the person of Jesus Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical instance of `{{G1660}}` occurs in Stephen's defense before the council in Acts. He powerfully recounts Israel's history of rejecting God's messengers, asking, "Which of the prophets have not your **fathers** persecuted?" [[Acts 7:52]]. Stephen declares that these persecuted prophets were the very ones who "shewed before" the **coming** `{{G1660}}` of the "Just One" `{{G1342}}`. The use of the word culminates in his accusation that his listeners have become the "betrayers" and "murderers" of this prophesied figure.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single context in [[Acts 7:52]] illuminate the meaning of `{{G1660}}`:
* `{{G4293}}` **prokatangéllō** (to anounce beforehand, i.e. predict, promise): This verb describes the act of foretelling. In the same verse, it is the prophets who "shewed before" the advent of the Just One [[Acts 7:52]]. The prophets also foretold of "these days" [[Acts 3:24]].
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy): This describes the one whose **coming** is announced. The title "the Just One" is used for this figure, who is identified as Jesus Christ, the **righteous** advocate with the Father [[1 John 2:1]].
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs** (a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker): These are the messengers who announced the **coming**. The **prophets** were consistently persecuted for their message [[Acts 7:52]], yet their writings, along with the Law, are shown to be fulfilled in Christ [[Luke 24:44]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1660}}` is concentrated in its singular use, highlighting several key themes:
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The **coming** is not a random event but the culmination of prophetic announcements. Stephen's argument hinges on the fact that God had "shewed before" `{{G4293}}` this advent through His prophets [[Acts 7:52]], a theme echoed elsewhere where it is stated God fulfilled what He showed by the mouth of all His prophets [[Acts 3:18]].
* **The Identity of the Just One:** The use of **éleusis** points specifically to the arrival of "the Just One" `{{G1342}}`. This title establishes the perfect and innocent character of the coming figure, marking the central event the prophets spoke of.
* **A Pattern of Rejection:** The context of the word highlights a tragic pattern. The **fathers** `{{G3962}}` who persecuted `{{G1377}}` the prophets announcing the **coming** are mirrored by Stephen's audience, who became the "betrayers" `{{G4273}}` and "murderers" `{{G5406}}` of the very one whose advent was foretold [[Acts 7:52]].
### Summary
In summary, while **éleusis** `{{G1660}}` appears only once, its significance is profound. It serves as a critical anchor in Stephen's argument, marking the prophesied **coming** of the Just One as the pivotal event in Israel's history. The word encapsulates the entire narrative of prophetic foretelling, the perfect character of the awaited Messiah, and the ultimate tragedy of His rejection. It demonstrates how a single, carefully chosen word can define a theological turning point.
TRV