### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hḗkō**, represented by `{{G2240}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to arrive** or **be present**. It appears 29 times across 26 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used both literally, to describe the physical arrival of a person, and figuratively, to denote the coming of a significant time, event, or judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2240}}` is used to mark pivotal moments of arrival. It describes the physical journey of people, such as when many came to hear Paul in Rome [[Acts 28:23]] or when the prodigal son **is come** home [[Luke 15:27]]. More significantly, it announces eschatological events, such as when the "end" shall **come** [[Matthew 24:14]] or when the "day of the Lord" will **come** as a thief [[2 Peter 3:10]]. The word is also used by Jesus to describe his own mission, stating "I **come**... to do thy will, O God" [[Hebrews 10:9]] and his future return, warning that he will **come** at an unexpected hour [[Revelation 3:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of arrival and presence:
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This is a more general term for coming or going and is often used in parallel with **hḗkō**. In [[John 6:37]], those the Father gives to Jesus **shall come** (hḗkō) to him, and the one that **cometh** (érchomai) will not be cast out.
* `{{G4328}}` **prosdokáō** (to anticipate... to await): This word describes the act of waiting for an arrival. It is used in a parable where the lord **will come** (hḗkō) at a day and hour when his servant **looketh not** for him [[Luke 12:46]].
* `{{G1127}}` **grēgoreúō** (to keep awake, i.e. watch): This emphasizes the need for vigilance in anticipation of an arrival. Jesus warns that if a church does not **watch**, he will **come** upon them like a thief [[Revelation 3:3]].
* `{{G5549}}` **chronízō** (to take time, i.e. linger): This word describes a delay in coming and stands in contrast to an imminent arrival. It is used to affirm that "he that shall come will **come**, and will not **tarry**" [[Hebrews 10:37]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2240}}` is centered on the certainty and significance of divine arrivals.
* **The Advent of Christ:** The word refers to both Christ's first and second comings. His incarnation is described as the moment the Son of God **is come** [[1 John 5:20]]. His future return is an event believers must prepare for, holding fast "till I **come**" [[Revelation 2:25]].
* **The Arrival of Judgment:** `{{G2240}}` is frequently used to announce a time of reckoning. The plagues on Babylon **shall come** in a single day [[Revelation 18:8]], and Jesus warns that days of destruction **shall come** upon Jerusalem [[Luke 19:43]].
* **The Ingathering of Believers:** The term signifies the gathering of God's people. It is promised that many **shall come** from the east and west to sit in the kingdom of heaven [[Matthew 8:11]] and that all nations **shall come** and worship before God [[Revelation 15:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2240}}` is a potent verb that signifies more than simple movement. It marks the definitive arrival of persons, appointed times, and divine judgments. From the return of a lost son to the climactic second coming of Christ, **hḗkō** underscores the biblical theme that God's plans and promises will surely and decisively **come** to pass.
TRV