The Greek word alektorophōnía, represented by G219, is derived from ἀλέκτωρ (rooster) and φωνή (sound). It refers to the cock-crow, and is used to identify the third night-watch. This specific term appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting its very particular application.
The sole instance of G219 is found in a command for watchfulness. In Mark 13:35, believers are instructed to watch because they do not know when the master of the house will come. The verse lists four distinct periods of the night as possibilities: "at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning". This context establishes alektorophōnía as a specific division of time, underscoring the need for constant readiness for the Lord's return.
Several words used in the same verse provide essential context for G219:
- G1127 grēgoreúō: Meaning to keep awake, i.e. watch. This is the core command that gives significance to the time of the cockcrowing, as it is a period when one must be vigilant Mark 13:35.
- G3796 opsé: Defined as late in the day or (at) even. This is the first of the four night watches mentioned, setting the sequence that includes the cockcrowing Mark 13:35.
- G3317 mesonýktion: This word means midnight and marks the second watch, immediately preceding the cockcrowing in the biblical warning Mark 13:35.
- G4404 prōḯ: Meaning at dawn or early (in the morning). This is the final watch listed, completing the full scope of the night during which the master might return Mark 13:35.
- G2962 kýrios: This title, meaning supreme in authority or Master, identifies the one for whom the household must watch, making the timing of his arrival critical Mark 13:35.
While appearing only once, the theological weight of G219 is derived entirely from its eschatological context.
- A Call to Vigilance: The term is part of a list that emphasizes the need to watch G1127 continuously, as the exact time of the master's return is unknown Mark 13:35.
- Symbol of Unpredictability: By specifying distinct watches like the cockcrowing, the passage stresses that the master could come G2064 at any point. The focus is not on predicting the moment, but on being prepared for any moment.
- Division of an Era of Waiting: The inclusion of G219 among the watches serves to break down the entire period of waiting into distinct parts, reinforcing the idea that readiness must be maintained through all of them without fail.
In summary, G219 is a highly specific term for the cockcrowing watch. Its singular use in scripture is pivotal, serving as a temporal marker in a critical teaching about the return of the master G2962 of the house G3614. It functions not as a standalone concept but as a crucial part of a larger warning to remain spiritually awake and prepared, illustrating how even a rare word can hold significant meaning within its biblical context.
TRV