### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mikrón**, represented by `{{G3397}}`, refers to a small space of time or degree. It is often translated as "a little" or "a little while." It appears **16 times** across **13 unique verses**, where it is used to describe a brief duration, a short distance, or a small measure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G3397}}` is frequently used by Jesus to describe the brief period of his absence from the disciples. He tells them, "A **little while**, and ye shall not see me: and again, a **little while**, and ye shall see me" [[John 16:16]], a statement which left his disciples to **enquire** `{{G2212}}` among themselves what he meant [[John 16:17-18]]. The word also marks a short physical distance, as when Jesus "went a **little** further" to pray in Gethsemane [[Matthew 26:39]]. In a prophetic context, it is used to convey the imminence of Christ's return, stating "For yet a **little while**, and he that shall come will come" [[Hebrews 10:37]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G3397}}` is used:
* `{{G2089}}` **éti** (yet, still): This word, meaning `"yet," still (of time or degree)`, often precedes `{{G3397}}` to emphasize the short but definite time remaining, as when Jesus says "yet a **little while** I am with you" [[John 13:33]].
* `{{G3825}}` **pálin** (again): Meaning "anew" or "once more," this word is central to Jesus's promise in [[John 16:16]], where he says "and **again**, a little while, and ye shall see me," highlighting the temporary nature of his departure.
* `{{G2334}}` **theōréō** (to see, behold): This word, meaning to **discern** or be a spectator of, is what the disciples will no longer be able to do for "a **little while**," contrasting with the world which will **see** Jesus no more permanently [[John 14:19]].
* `{{G5610}}` **hṓra** (hour): This term for an **"hour" (literally or figuratively)** is linked to `{{G3397}}` in the Gethsemane narrative. After going forward "a **little**," Jesus prays that the **hour** might pass from him [[Mark 14:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3397}}` is seen in its application to God's timing and redemptive plan.
* **Promise of Reunion:** Jesus uses "a **little while**" to frame the period between his death and resurrection as brief. While the **world** `{{G2889}}` will no longer see him, he assures his disciples they will **see** `{{G2334}}` him again because he is going to the **Father** `{{G3962}}` and they too will **live** `{{G2198}}` ([[John 14:19]], [[John 16:16]]).
* **Imminence of Christ's Coming:** The phrase "yet a **little while**" is used to encourage believers by underscoring the nearness of Christ's return, promising that he will **come** `{{G2240}}` and will not **tarry** `{{G5549}}` [[Hebrews 10:37]].
* **The Weight of a Moment:** In Gethsemane, Jesus moves a "little" distance to pray for the **cup** `{{G4221}}` to **pass** `{{G3928}}` from him, if **possible** `{{G1415}}`. This small space represents a monumental moment of submission to the Father's will [[Matthew 26:39]].
* **Humility in Ministry:** Paul uses the word to temper his own boasting, asking the Corinthians to bear with him "a **little** in my **folly**" `{{G877}}` [[2 Corinthians 11:1]]. This illustrates how a "little" measure can be a tool for humility.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3397}}` conveys more than just a small quantity. It is a word used to frame profound spiritual realities concerning time, trial, and promise. It teaches that periods of separation and suffering are temporary from a divine perspective. Whether describing the short time until Christ's return or the brief distance he walked to pray in Gethsemane, **mikrón** emphasizes that moments which seem long or difficult to humans are but "a little while" within the scope of God's eternal purpose.
TRV