### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eniautós**, represented by `{{G1763}}`, signifies a **year**. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on its root meaning of a prolongation of time, the term is used to mark both literal durations of activity and significant, often ceremonially defined, periods.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1763}}` is used to frame important events and rituals. It marks the divinely appointed time for Jesus to begin his public ministry, as he came "To preach the acceptable **year** of the Lord" [[Luke 4:19]]. The term also establishes the rigid, recurring cycle of the Old Covenant law, where the high priest entered the holy place "once every **year**" [[Hebrews 9:7]] and sacrifices were offered "year by year" [[Hebrews 10:1]]. In a more common context, it describes human plans and durations, such as the intention to stay in a city for a **year** to conduct business [[James 4:13]] or the apostles' work of teaching in a city for "a whole **year**" [[Acts 11:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the biblical measurement of time, often appearing alongside `{{G1763}}`:
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra**: feminine (with ὥρα implied) of a derivative of (to sit; akin to the base of ἑδραῖος) meaning tame, i.e. gentle; day, i.e. (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the Jews as inclusive of the parts of both extremes); figuratively, a period (always defined more or less clearly by the context):--age, + alway, (mid-)day (by day, (-ly)), + for ever, judgment, (day) time, while, years. It is used in a list of observed times in [[Galatians 4:10]].
* `{{G3376}}` **mḗn**: a primary word; a month:--month. This unit of time is used with `{{G1763}}` to specify durations, such as the drought lasting "three **years** and six **months**" [[James 5:17]].
* `{{G2540}}` **kairós**: of uncertain affinity; an occasion, i.e. set or proper time:--X always, opportunity, (convenient, due) season, (due, short, while) time, a while. Compare χρόνος. This term for a specific or opportune time appears with **years** in a warning against observing special periods [[Galatians 4:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1763}}` is significant, particularly in contrasting old and new covenants.
* **Annual Atonement:** The word is central to the description of the Day of Atonement rituals in Hebrews. The high priest's offering "every **year**" [[Hebrews 9:25]] and the yearly remembrance of sins [[Hebrews 10:3]] highlight the repetitive and incomplete nature of the law.
* **Prophetic Proclamation:** Jesus' declaration of "the acceptable **year** of the Lord" [[Luke 4:19]] marks a pivotal moment in redemptive history, signifying the arrival of the long-awaited era of salvation.
* **Measures of Time:** `{{G1763}}` is used within divinely appointed prophetic timelines, as when angels are prepared for a specific "**hour**, and a **day**, and a **month**, and a **year**" [[Revelation 9:15]], demonstrating God's precise sovereignty over events.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1763}}` is more than just a calendar measurement. It is a key term for understanding the rhythm of Old Covenant worship, the fulfillment of prophecy in Christ, and the contrast between human planning and God's sovereign timing. From the yearly rituals of the high priest to the "acceptable year of the Lord," **eniautós** provides a framework for measuring significant periods in God's redemptive plan.
TRV