### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἑορτή (heortḗ)**, represented by `{{G1859}}`, is a term for a **festival** or **holyday**. It appears 27 times across 25 unique verses in the Bible. The word's base definition is of uncertain affinity, but it consistently refers to a time of sacred celebration or a religious feast.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1859}}` provides the setting for many key events in the life of Jesus. It is frequently used to identify specific Jewish religious festivals, such as the "feast of the passover" [[Luke 2:41]], the "feast of tabernacles" [[John 7:2]], and the "feast of unleavened bread" [[Luke 22:1]]. The Gospels often mark the passage of time by referencing an approaching **feast** [[John 6:4]]. Jesus and his family are depicted traveling to Jerusalem to observe these festivals according to custom [[Luke 2:42]], and his public ministry often centered around the large crowds gathered for a **feast** [[John 12:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the specific context of these sacred times:
* `{{G3957}}` **páscha**: This is the **Passover**, one of the most significant festivals. It is directly linked to `{{G1859}}` in phrases like "the feast of the passover" [[John 13:1]].
* `{{G4634}}` **skēnopēgía**: This refers to the **Festival of Tabernacles**, another major event on the Jewish calendar where `{{G1859}}` is used for identification [[John 7:2]].
* `{{G106}}` **ázymos**: Meaning **unleavened**, this term describes the bread eaten during the Passover week and is used to name "the feast of unleavened bread" [[Luke 22:1]].
* `{{G4521}}` **sábbaton**: This is the **Sabbath**, a day of weekly repose. It is mentioned alongside "holyday" `{{G1859}}` and "new moon" as a religious observance [[Colossians 2:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1859}}` is revealed in its narrative function.
* **A Setting for Revelation:** The feasts serve as the backdrop for Jesus’s major teachings and miracles. He taught in the temple during the **feast** [[John 7:14]] and on the last day of the **feast**, he made a profound call for all who are thirsty to come to him [[John 7:37]].
* **A Point of Conflict:** The large gatherings during a **feast** often heightened tensions. The chief priests and scribes planned to avoid arresting Jesus on the **feast** day itself to prevent an uproar among the people [[Mark 14:2]].
* **Observance and Fulfillment:** The term is used in a list of religious observances, including the new moon and sabbath days, which Paul indicates should not be a cause for judgment among believers [[Colossians 2:16]], suggesting a fulfillment beyond the ritual itself.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1859}}` is a crucial term that signifies more than a mere holiday. It functions as a structural pillar in the Gospel accounts, marking the sacred rhythm of Jewish life into which Jesus entered. These feasts were divinely appointed times that became the stage for Christ's most significant teachings, conflicts, and revelations to the nation of Israel.
TRV