The Greek word hḗmisy, represented by G2255, is a noun meaning half. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from a prefix indicating partition, it is used to describe a division of both tangible things like possessions and abstract concepts like kingdoms and time.
In its biblical usage, G2255 defines a specific portion in various contexts. It quantifies an act of profound repentance when Zacchaeus declares he will give "the half of my goods" to the poor Luke 19:8. It is also used to express an extravagant oath, as when Herod promises to give a young woman whatever she asks, "unto the half of my kingdom" Mark 6:23. In the book of Revelation, the term is used to mark precise prophetic periods, such as the "three days and an half" that the two witnesses' bodies lie in the street Revelation 11:9 and the "time, and times, and half a time" that the woman is nourished in the wilderness Revelation 12:14.
Several related words help clarify the context in which a half is mentioned:
- G5224 hypárchonta (property or possessions): This word specifies what is being divided by Zacchaeus, who offers half of his "goods" Luke 19:8 as a sign of his transformation.
- G932 basileía (kingdom): This term defines the immense value of Herod's sworn promise, offering up to half of his entire "kingdom" Mark 6:23.
- G2250 hēméra (day): This word for "day" is used in conjunction with G2255 to specify a precise duration of three and a half "days" in the prophecy concerning the two witnesses Revelation 11:9.
- G2540 kairós (an occasion, i.e. set or proper time): This term for a specific "time" or "season" is prophetically divided in Revelation, where the woman is protected for a "time, and times, and half a time" Revelation 12:14.
The theological weight of G2255 is seen in its application to both human commitment and divine timing.
- A Measure of Repentance: The pledge made by Zacchaeus to give half of his possessions demonstrates a tangible and sacrificial response to encountering the Lord, signifying a radical shift in values from worldly wealth to charity Luke 19:8.
- An Expression of Ultimate Value: The hyperbolic promise of half a kingdom is used to signify an offer of immense, almost limitless, value, establishing the high stakes of an oath Mark 6:23.
- A Marker of Prophetic Precision: In Revelation, its use is not approximate but defines specific, sovereignly-appointed periods. The three and a half days Revelation 11:11 and the "time, times, and half a time" Revelation 12:14 underscore that even periods of trial and persecution are measured and under God's control.
In summary, G2255 functions as more than a simple fraction. It is a word that carries significant weight, whether measuring the depth of a person's repentance, the extravagance of a king's promise, or the precise length of a prophetic period decreed by God. From a tax collector's possessions to the timeline of apocalyptic events, hḗmisy illustrates how a specific division can convey profound spiritual meaning.
TRV