neuter of a derivative from an inseparable prefix akin to ἅμα (through the idea of partition involved in connection) and meaning semi-; (as noun) half:--half.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun *hḗmisy* (G2255) fundamentally denotes "half" or "a half." Derived from a root suggesting partition, it refers to one of two equal parts into which something is divided. Its semantic range is primarily quantitative, indicating a precise division or a specific fractional portion of a whole, whether that whole be a physical object, a sum of money, or a period of time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *hḗmisy* appears in the New Testament in a limited but significant number of instances:
* **[[Luke 19:8]]**: In this account of Zacchaeus's conversion, he declares, "Behold, Lord, the *half* of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold." Here, *hḗmisy* refers to a literal, ethical division of Zacchaeus's possessions. His willingness to give away half of his wealth demonstrates a profound and tangible act of repentance and generosity, far exceeding the requirements of the Law, showcasing the transformative power of encountering Jesus.
* **[[Revelation 11:9]] and [[Revelation 11:11]]**: These verses describe the two witnesses whose bodies lie in the street "three days and an *half*." In this context, *hḗmisy* specifies a precise duration, completing the period of three and a half days. This short, exact timeframe underscores the swiftness of divine intervention and the limited nature of the power granted to the enemies of God's witnesses.
* **[[Revelation 12:14]]**: Describing the woman (representing God's people) fleeing into the wilderness, it states she is nourished "for a time, and times, and *half* a time." This is a highly symbolic prophetic period. The "half a time" completes a duration often interpreted as 3.5 years, 42 months, or 1260 days, which aligns with other prophetic periods of tribulation and divine protection found elsewhere in Daniel and Revelation (e.g., [[Daniel 7:25]], [[Daniel 12:7]], [[Revelation 11:2]], [[Revelation 13:5]]). Here, *hḗmisy* signifies the precise, divinely appointed limit to a period of intense spiritual conflict and persecution, during which God provides for His people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "half" naturally relates to words describing parts, portions, or divisions. It stands in contrast to the concept of a "whole." In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalent `{{H2677}}` (chatsi), also meaning "half" or "middle," is frequently used, particularly in legal, architectural, and chronological contexts. The prophetic "time, times, and half a time" in Daniel (e.g., [[Daniel 7:25]]) directly prefigures its use in Revelation, highlighting a continuous prophetic tradition. The precise temporal measurements in Revelation also connect *hḗmisy* to other numerical symbols and durations, such as "forty-two months" (`{{G3147}}` for months) and "one thousand two hundred and sixty days" (`{{G2250}}` for days), all of which point to a divinely ordained, limited period of tribulation or divine action.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *hḗmisy* is twofold, reflecting its varied contexts:
1. **Ethical Transformation and Radical Generosity**: In [[Luke 19:8]], Zacchaeus's declaration to give "the half of my goods" is a powerful testament to genuine repentance. It signifies a radical reorientation of values, moving from covetousness to sacrificial generosity. This act is not merely a legalistic fulfillment but an outpouring of a transformed heart, demonstrating the practical implications of salvation and the kingdom's call to justice and charity.
2. **Divine Sovereignty Over Time and Prophecy**: In Revelation, the repeated use of "half" within specific timeframes (e.g., "three days and a half," "half a time") underscores God's meticulous control over eschatological events. These precise durations indicate that periods of tribulation, persecution, and divine intervention are not arbitrary but are precisely measured and limited by God's sovereign will. The "half" signifies the completion of a divinely appointed period, offering assurance that suffering has a set duration and that God's plan will unfold according to His perfect timing. It conveys a sense of certainty regarding prophetic fulfillment and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes, even amidst intense conflict.
### Summary
*Hḗmisy* (G2255) means "half" or "a half," representing a precise division or portion. Its New Testament occurrences are limited but carry significant implications. In [[Luke 19:8]], it highlights Zacchaeus's radical generosity and transformed heart, demonstrating a tangible commitment to justice and charity. In the prophetic books of Revelation ([[Revelation 11:9]], [[Revelation 11:11]], [[Revelation 12:14]]), *hḗmisy* functions as a crucial temporal marker, completing specific, divinely ordained periods of time ("three days and a half," "half a time"). These uses emphasize God's sovereign control over the unfolding of eschatological events, assuring believers that periods of tribulation and divine action are precisely measured and limited by His will, leading to the certain fulfillment of His redemptive plan.
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