of uncertain affinity; an occasion, i.e. set or proper time:--X always, opportunity, (convenient, due) season, (due, short, while) time, a while. Compare χρόνος.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kairos**, represented by `{{G2540}}`, denotes an occasion or a set, proper **time**. It appears **87 times** across **82 unique verses**, highlighting its significance. The base definition describes it as "an occasion, i.e. set or proper time," and specifically compares it to **chronos** `{{G5550}}`, which refers to a general space of time. Thus, **kairos** carries the sense of a specific, opportune, or divinely appointed moment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2540}}` is used to mark significant moments in God's plan. It describes a "due **season**" for reaping what is sown [[Galatians 6:9]] and for giving meat to a household [[Matthew 24:45]]. It is used for divinely appointed events, such as Christ dying for the ungodly "in due **time**" [[Romans 5:6]] and God exalting the humble in "due **time**" [[1 Peter 5:6]]. The word also carries eschatological weight, referring to the "last **time**" [[1 Peter 1:5]], the "latter **times**" [[1 Timothy 4:1]], and the moment when Jesus declared, "The **time** is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand" [[Mark 1:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of opportune or appointed moments:
* `{{G5550}}` **chrónos** (a space of time): This word is used for a general duration or interval, as distinct from the specific occasion of **kairos**. The two appear together when Jesus tells the disciples it is not for them to know the "**times** (chrónos) or the **seasons** (kairos)" [[Acts 1:7]].
* `{{G5610}}` **hṓra** (an "hour"): This term can denote a more immediate or specific point in time. It is used alongside **kairos** in [[Romans 13:11]], which speaks of knowing the "**time** (kairos)" because it is now the "**hour** (hṓra)" to awake from sleep.
* `{{G1448}}` **engízō** (to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach): This verb often describes the arrival of a specific **kairos**, as in "the **time** draweth near" [[Luke 21:8]] or the kingdom of God being "at hand" [[Mark 1:15]].
* `{{G1451}}` **engýs** (near (literally or figuratively, of place or time)): Similar to the verb form, this adjective indicates the proximity of a key moment, such as in the phrases "My **time** is at hand" [[Matthew 26:18]] and "the **time** is at hand" [[Revelation 1:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2540}}` is significant, highlighting God's sovereign timing and human responsibility within it.
* **Divine Appointment and Sovereignty:** God is the one who has "determined the **times** before appointed" [[Acts 17:26]]. This is demonstrated by Christ's manifestation "in due **times**" [[Titus 1:3]] and the Father putting certain **times** and **seasons** within His own power [[Acts 1:7]].
* **Prophetic Fulfillment and Eschatology:** The word is crucial for understanding God's redemptive plan. It marks the "fulness of **times**" when all things will be gathered in Christ [[Ephesians 1:10]], the "time of reformation" [[Hebrews 9:10]], and the future "time" of judgment for the dead [[Revelation 11:18]].
* **Stewardship and Opportunity:** Believers are commanded to act wisely within God's timing. This is expressed in the exhortations to "redeem the **time**" ([[Ephesians 5:16]], [[Colossians 4:5]]) and to use the present **opportunity** to do good to all people [[Galatians 6:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2540}}` is far more than a simple word for time. It signifies a critical, strategic, or appointed moment within God's overarching plan. It underscores the themes of divine sovereignty in history, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the believer's duty to discern and act wisely within the opportunities God provides. Whether referring to a harvest, Christ's first coming, or the end of the age, **kairos** reminds us that God's timing is precise and purposeful.
TRV