### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epaúrion**, represented by `{{G1887}}`, means **occurring on the succeeding day**. It appears **17 times** in **17 unique verses** and is used to signify events on the **morrow** or **next day**. This term is formed from **ἐπί** (epí) `{{G1909}}` and αὔριον, establishing a clear marker for the day that follows.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G1887}}` is used to structure the progression of events. It marks the day John the Baptist sees Jesus and declares him the **Lamb** of God [[John 1:29]]. It also sets the stage for the events immediately following the preparation for the Sabbath, when the chief priests and Pharisees approach Pilate [[Matthew 27:62]]. In the book of Acts, it frequently denotes the next stage of apostolic journeys, as when Peter went on his journey from Joppa [[Acts 10:23]], or when Paul departed with Barnabas to Derbe [[Acts 14:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the events occurring on the "next day":
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra** (day): This is the implied noun for `{{G1887}}`. Its definition includes "day, i.e. (literally) the time space between dawn and dark." It is sometimes used in proximity to `{{G1887}}` to specify a period of time, such as when Festus tarried for more than ten **days** before commanding Paul to be brought on the **next day** [[Acts 25:6]].
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This verb frequently describes the significant action that takes place on the "next day." For example, John the Baptist sees Jesus **coming** on the **next day** [[John 1:29]], and much people heard that Jesus was **coming** to Jerusalem on the **next day** [[John 12:12]].
* `{{G1831}}` **exérchomai** (to issue): This verb meaning to "come (forth, out), depart," often details the action initiated on the **morrow**. For instance, Jesus would **go forth** into Galilee the **day following** [[John 1:43]], and Paul **departed** with Barnabas the **next day** [[Acts 14:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1887}}` lies in its function as a narrative marker for God's unfolding plan.
* **Narrative Progression:** The term functions as a literary device to connect scenes and show a clear, deliberate sequence of events. In John's gospel, the phrase "the next day" repeatedly appears to structure the opening of Jesus' ministry, linking John the Baptist's testimony ([[John 1:29]], [[John 1:35]]) to Jesus calling his first disciples [[John 1:43]].
* **Continuity of Mission:** In the book of Acts, `{{G1887}}` highlights the relentless pace of the apostles' work. Paul is ready to depart on the **morrow** after preaching until midnight [[Acts 20:7]], and later he departs with Barnabas on the **next day** after being surrounded by disciples [[Acts 14:20]]. This underscores the urgency of their ministry.
* **Setting for Pivotal Events:** The phrase often introduces a day on which a crucial event occurs. It marks the moment John identifies Jesus as the **Lamb** of God [[John 1:29]] and the day the chief priests and Pharisees secured the tomb after the crucifixion [[Matthew 27:62]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1887}}` **epaúrion** is more than a simple chronological marker. It serves as a vital structural element in biblical narrative, linking events and propelling the story forward. It underscores the purposeful progression of divine action, highlights the continuous nature of apostolic ministry, and sets the stage for some of the most significant moments in scripture. From the testimony of John to the journeys of Paul, the "day following" is consistently presented as a time of consequence and forward movement in God's plan.
TRV