### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hēmiṓrion**, represented by `{{G2256}}`, is a term for **a half-hour**. It is derived from the Greek words for "half" and "hour." This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking a very specific and singular moment in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2256}}` occurs in the book of Revelation. After the Lamb had **opened** `{{G455}}` the **seventh** `{{G1442}}` **seal** `{{G4973}}`, a profound event takes place: "there was **silence** `{{G4602}}` **in** `{{G1722}}` **heaven** `{{G3772}}` about the space of **half an hour**" [[Revelation 8:1]]. This term is used to measure a dramatic and suspenseful pause in all heavenly activity before the final series of judgments is unleashed upon the earth.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G2256}}` is illuminated by several related words from its only appearance:
* `{{G4602}}` **sigḗ** (silence): This word describes the very state that `{{G2256}}` measures. The **half an hour** is a period of total **silence** in heaven, a moment of solemn quiet before God [[Revelation 8:1]]. A great **silence** is also described as falling over a crowd before Paul speaks [[Acts 21:40]].
* `{{G1442}}` **hébdomos** (seventh): This provides the critical context for the event. The silence occurs precisely when the **seventh** and final seal is opened, indicating a point of culmination and transition in God's prophetic timeline [[Revelation 8:1]].
* `{{G3772}}` **ouranós** (heaven): This specifies the location of the momentous pause. The silence is not on earth but **in heaven**, the very abode of God, which underscores its significance [[Revelation 8:1]]. **Heaven** is consistently portrayed as the center of God's power and authority [[Matthew 28:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2256}}` is entirely derived from its singular, dramatic context in [[Revelation 8:1]].
* **Solemn Anticipation:** The **half an hour** of silence serves as a powerful literary and theological device, creating a moment of profound and tense anticipation. It is a pause that separates the breaking of the final **seal** `{{G4973}}` from the judgments that follow.
* **The Gravity of Judgment:** This measured period of quiet **in heaven** `{{G3772}}` highlights the solemnity and severity of what is to come. The cessation of all sound before the throne of God implies that the subsequent events carry immense weight.
* **Divine Timing:** The specific duration, a **half an hour**, signifies that this pause is not accidental but is a deliberate and controlled part of God's sovereign plan. Every moment, even one of silence, is appointed.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G2256}}` **hēmiṓrion** is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its impact is significant. Its solitary appearance in scripture is used to mark a measured, solemn, and dramatic pause in heaven. This "half an hour" of silence immediately following the opening of the seventh seal creates a moment of unparalleled anticipation, underscoring the gravity of God's final judgments and the meticulous nature of His divine timing.
TRV