### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word τανῦν (tanŷn, `{{G3569}}`) is a rare adverbial construction derived from the neuter plural of the definite article ὁ (ho, "the") and the adverb νῦν (nyn, `{{G3568}}`, "now"). Literally, it could be understood as "the things now" or "as for now." Semantically, it functions as an emphatic or particularizing form of "now," conveying the sense of "at present," "for the present moment," or "but now." It directs attention to the immediate, current reality, often in contrast to a past state or a future expectation. Its close relationship to the more common νῦν (`{{G3568}}`) suggests that τανῦν (`{{G3569}}`) would underscore the immediacy and specificity of the present circumstance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is important to note that τανῦν (tanŷn, `{{G3569}}`) is exceedingly rare in the critical editions of the Greek New Testament. Most occurrences of "now" are represented by the more common νῦν (nyn, `{{G3568}}`). While Strong's Concordance lists it as a distinct entry, its presence as a primary reading in standard New Testament manuscripts is virtually non-existent. This suggests that its inclusion in Strong's may reflect a particular textual tradition or a grammatical possibility rather than a widespread usage.
If τανῦν (`{{G3569}}`) were to appear, its function would be to emphasize the present moment, similar to how νῦν (`{{G3568}}`) is used in passages like [[Acts 24:13]] where Paul states, "Nor can they prove the things of which they *now* accuse me." The underlying concept would be to highlight the current state of affairs, the immediate reality, or a present action in progress. Its grammatical structure, incorporating the definite article, could subtly imply "the *very* now" or "the *specific* present circumstances," adding a nuance of particularity to the temporal adverb.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related and foundational word is νῦν (nyn, `{{G3568}}`), which is the primary Greek term for "now" or "at present" and is widely attested throughout the New Testament. τανῦν (`{{G3569}}`) can be seen as a grammatical elaboration or emphatic variant of νῦν (`{{G3568}}`).
Other related temporal adverbs that delineate the passage of time include:
* ἤδη (ēdē, `{{G2235}}`): "already," indicating something that has taken place prior to the present moment but whose effects are still felt.
* ἔτι (eti, `{{G2089}}`): "still," "yet," implying continuation.
* ἀπ’ ἄρτι (ap' arti, `{{G737}}`): "from now on," indicating a point in time from which something will proceed.
* ποτε (pote, `{{G4223}}`): "at one time," "formerly," referring to a past indefinite time.
The concept of "now" (whether expressed by τανῦν or, more commonly, νῦν) is crucial in biblical theology, often contrasting with "then" (past) or "not yet" (future). It relates to the theological concepts of *chronos* (sequential time) and *kairos* (opportune or decisive time). The "now" often signifies a moment of divine intervention, human decision, or the present reality of God's kingdom.
### Theological Significance
Despite its extreme rarity in the New Testament, the conceptual foundation of τανῦν (`{{G3569}}`) in νῦν (`{{G3568}}`) carries profound theological weight. The "now" in Scripture is frequently presented as a time of urgent divine activity and human responsibility.
1. **The Present Reality of Salvation:** The New Testament often emphasizes that salvation is not merely a future hope but a present reality. "Behold, *now* is the favorable time; behold, *now* is the day of salvation" [[2 Corinthians 6:2]]. This "now" calls for immediate response and faith.
2. **The Indwelling of the Spirit:** Believers *now* experience the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, a down payment of future glory [[Ephesians 1:13-14]]. This present spiritual reality transforms the believer's life and empowers them for service.
3. **Christ's Present Reign:** While the full manifestation of God's kingdom is future, Christ *now* reigns from heaven, having been exalted to the right hand of the Father [[Hebrews 1:3]]. The "now" of His exaltation has implications for the authority and power available to believers.
4. **Urgency and Decision:** The "now" frequently serves as a call to immediate decision and action. There is an urgency to respond to God's grace and truth in the present moment, as the opportunity may not endure.
5. **Contrast with Past and Future:** The "now" often stands in stark contrast to a past state of sin or ignorance and points toward a future hope. "But *now* in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ" [[Ephesians 2:13]]. This highlights the transformative power of God's work in the present.
The "now" is the arena where faith is lived out, where God's promises begin to unfold, and where humanity encounters the divine.
### Summary
τανῦν (tanŷn, `{{G3569}}`) is a grammatically constructed adverb meaning "at present" or "for the present moment," formed from the neuter plural definite article and the adverb νῦν (`{{G3568}}`, "now"). While exceedingly rare in the Greek New Testament, its conceptual meaning is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of time. It emphasizes the immediacy and specificity of the current moment. Theologically, the "now" in Scripture, primarily expressed through νῦν (`{{G3568}}`), underscores the present reality of salvation, the indwelling of the Spirit, Christ's current reign, and the urgent call to respond to God's grace. It highlights the profound significance of the present moment as the sphere of divine activity and human encounter with the sacred.
TRV