### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ákron**, represented by `{{G206}}`, denotes **the extremity:--one end… other, tip, top, uttermost participle**. It appears **6 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe the furthest point, boundary, or end of both vast, conceptual spaces and small, physical objects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G206}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It establishes the comprehensive scope of God's end-times gathering, when His angels `{{G32}}` will gather the elect `{{G1588}}` "from one **end** of heaven to the other" [[Matthew 24:31]]. This concept is reinforced in a parallel account, which describes the gathering "from the **uttermost part** of the earth to the **uttermost part** of heaven" [[Mark 13:27]]. In contrast, it is also used with minute precision, as when the rich man in torment asks for Lazarus to dip the **tip** of his finger `{{G1147}}` in water `{{G5204}}` [[Luke 16:24]]. Finally, it describes Jacob's act of worship, leaning on the **top** of his staff `{{G4464}}` [[Hebrews 11:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **ákron** appears:
* `{{G1996}}` **episynágō** (to collect upon the same place): This verb describes the divine action that occurs between the boundaries marked by `{{G206}}`, as God will **gather together** His elect from the ends of the heavens [[Mark 13:27]].
* `{{G1588}}` **eklektós** (select; by implication, favorite): This identifies the people who are the subject of the great gathering, God's **elect** or chosen ones, who are brought in from the furthest extremities [[Matthew 24:31]].
* `{{G4464}}` **rhábdos** (a stick or wand... rod, sceptre, staff): This term provides a concrete, physical object whose "top" is the focus, contrasting the cosmic scale of other verses with a personal act of worship involving a **staff** [[Hebrews 11:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G206}}` is demonstrated through its varied applications:
* **Cosmic Scope of Redemption:** Its use in [[Matthew 24:31]] and [[Mark 13:27]] illustrates the all-encompassing nature of God's plan. He will **send** `{{G649}}` His messengers to the farthest reaches of creation to bring His chosen people together.
* **Tangible Reality of the Afterlife:** The plea for Lazarus to dip the **tip** of his finger in water highlights a specific physical extremity. This conveys a sense of tangible suffering and the desire for even the smallest possible measure of relief [[Luke 16:24]].
* **Faith at Life's Extremity:** Jacob worshipping on the **top** of his staff signifies an act of faith at the end of his life. It connects the word to a moment of reverence and dependence upon God when physical strength is failing [[Hebrews 11:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G206}}` is a word that carries significant meaning through its ability to define an endpoint or boundary. It is used to frame the absolute totality of God's redemptive reach, from one end of heaven to the other. Simultaneously, it can zoom in on the most precise physical points, such as the tip of a finger or the top of a staff, to articulate profound human experiences of suffering and worship.