from ἐφήμερος; diurnality, i.e. (specially) the quotidian rotation or class of the Jewish priests' service at the Temple, as distributed by families:--course.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ephēmería**, represented by `{{G2183}}`, refers to the rotational division or class of the Jewish priests' service at the Temple. The base definition describes this as a **course**, signifying a quotidian rotation distributed by families. This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G2183}}` is found exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, where it establishes the setting for the announcement of the birth of John the Baptist. It is first used to identify Zacharias as a **priest** `{{G2409}}` belonging to "the **course** of Abia" [[Luke 1:5]]. This immediately defines the word as a reference to a specific priestly division. The narrative then states that Zacharias was performing his duties "in the order of his **course**" [[Luke 1:8]], confirming that these divisions determined when a priest would serve before God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and function of the priestly **course**:
* `{{G2409}}` **hiereús** (a priest): This is the role to which the **course** system applies. Zacharias is introduced first as a **priest** before his specific **course** is named [[Luke 1:5]].
* `{{G2407}}` **hierateúō** (to be a priest, i.e. perform his functions): This verb describes the priestly function carried out during a designated **course**. Zacharias "executed the priest's office" as determined by his rotation [[Luke 1:8]].
* `{{G5010}}` **táxis** (regular arrangement... order): This term is paired directly with `{{G2183}}` to highlight the structured nature of the system. The priestly duty was performed "in the **order** of his course" [[Luke 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2183}}` is centered on its illustration of divine order and historical authenticity.
* **Order in Worship:** The existence of the priestly **course** demonstrates a divinely recognized and structured system for Temple service. The pairing with **táxis** (order) in [[Luke 1:8]] emphasizes that the priestly functions were not haphazard but followed a "regular arrangement."
* **Historical Context:** By specifying Zacharias's identity through his priestly **course** [[Luke 1:5]], the Gospel narrative is grounded in the concrete, verifiable religious practices of Judaea at that time, setting the stage for the events of salvation history.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2183}}` is a precise term for the rotational divisions that organized priestly service in the Temple. Though used only twice, its appearance in Luke is crucial for establishing an environment of order and historical reality for the events leading to the New Testament. It shows how the duties of a **priest** `{{G2409}}` were carried out within a fixed **order** `{{G5010}}` as part of their assigned **course**.
TRV