### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **éschatos**, represented by `{{G2078}}`, is a superlative term meaning **farthest** or **final**. It is likely derived from `{{G2192}}` **échō**, in the sense of contiguity. It appears 54 times across 49 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage covers concepts of time and place, translated as **last**, **latter end**, **lowest**, or **uttermost**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2078}}` is used in several key contexts. It is frequently used to denote a future, eschatological period, such as "the **last** day" [[John 6:44]] or "the **last** days" [[Acts 2:17]]. Geographically, it defines the extent of the gospel's reach "unto the ends of the **earth**" [[Acts 13:47]]. The word also illustrates a divine reversal of human status, as seen in the principle that "the **last** shall be first" [[Matthew 20:16]]. Furthermore, it is used as a title for Jesus Christ, who declares Himself "the first and the **last**" [[Revelation 1:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of finality and sequence:
* `{{G2192}}` **échō** (to hold): This is the probable root of `{{G2078}}`, providing the sense of contiguity or sequence from which **last** is derived.
* `{{G4413}}` **prōtos** (foremost, first): This word is the direct opposite of `{{G2078}}` and is often used in contrast to it, as in the phrase "the **first** and the **last**" [[Revelation 22:13]].
* `{{G5056}}` **télos** (end, conclusion): This term relates to the conclusion of an act or state, while `{{G2078}}` often refers to the final item in a sequence or the final period of time. It is used alongside `{{G2078}}` when Christ is called "the beginning and the **end**, the first and the **last**" [[Revelation 22:13]].
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra** (day): This word is frequently modified by `{{G2078}}` to denote the final period of judgment and resurrection, as in "the **last** **day**" [[John 6:40]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2078}}` is immense. It forms the basis of our understanding of God's ultimate plan for history.
* **Finality and Judgment:** The phrase "the **last** day" consistently points to a future time of ultimate resurrection and judgment, where Christ will raise believers [[John 6:40]] and judge those who reject him [[John 12:48]].
* **Divine Title of Christ:** As "the first and the **last**" [[Revelation 1:17]], the term elevates to a title of divinity, signifying Christ's eternal existence and sovereignty over all creation from beginning to end.
* **The Present Eschatological Age:** The term is used to describe the era initiated by Christ's coming as "these **last** days" [[Hebrews 1:2]]. This period is marked by the outpouring of the Spirit [[Acts 2:17]] but also by the rise of mockers and perilous times ([[2 Timothy 3:1]], [[Jude 1:18]]).
* **Scope of Salvation:** When used geographically, as in "unto the ends of the **earth**" [[Acts 13:47]], it underscores the universal reach of God's salvation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2078}}` **éschatos** is a pivotal word that defines finality in both time and space. It functions not merely as a descriptor of sequence but as a significant theological marker for the end times, the day of judgment, and the ultimate extent of God's redemptive mission. From describing the **lowest** room at a feast [[Luke 14:10]] to being a divine title for Christ as the **last** [[Revelation 22:13]], it frames the biblical understanding of history's conclusion and Christ's supreme authority over it.
TRV