### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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