### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tanŷn**, represented by `{{G3569}}`, is an adverb meaning "at present" or "(but) **now**." Appearing **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, it is derived from "the things **now**." This term is used to mark a specific, current moment, often creating a pivot point in a discourse or narrative. It signals a shift from what was previously discussed to what is immediately relevant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Acts, where all its occurrences are found, `{{G3569}}` consistently introduces a crucial statement for the present time. Paul uses it to declare a new divine expectation, stating that after times of ignorance `{{G52}}` that God `{{G2316}}` winked at `{{G5237}}`, "**now** commandeth all men every where to repent" [[Acts 17:30]]. Gamaliel uses it to offer his definitive counsel `{{G1012}}` to the council: "And **now** I say unto you, Refrain from these men" [[Acts 5:38]]. The early believers use it in prayer to bring their immediate peril before the Lord, saying, "And **now**, Lord, behold their threatenings" [[Acts 4:29]]. Paul also uses it to give a final charge to the Ephesian elders [[Acts 20:32]] and to exhort `{{G3867}}` his shipmates to be of good cheer `{{G2114}}` during a storm [[Acts 27:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the actions that `{{G3569}}` introduces:
* `{{G3853}}` **parangéllō** (commandeth): This word means to transmit a message or enjoin. It is used directly after `{{G3569}}` to show that the present moment brings a new divine command `{{G3853}}` for all men to repent [[Acts 17:30]].
* `{{G3867}}` **parainéō** (exhort): Meaning to advise or recommend a course of action. Paul uses this to "exhort `{{G3867}}` you to be of good cheer" in the immediate crisis, highlighting the word's function to introduce encouragement [[Acts 27:22]].
* `{{G3908}}` **paratíthēmi** (commend): This term means to deposit as a trust. Paul uses it after `{{G3569}}` to "commend `{{G3908}}` you to God" [[Acts 20:32]], marking a present act of entrusting others to divine care.
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (repent): Defined as to think differently or reconsider, this is the specific action God now commands through Paul's preaching, showing that `{{G3569}}` can introduce a call for fundamental change [[Acts 17:30]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3569}}` carries significant weight, often marking a pivotal moment.
* **A Call to Immediate Action:** The word emphasizes the urgency of the present. It is not a general "sometime," but a specific "**now**" that demands a response, as when God `{{G2316}}` commandeth `{{G3853}}` all men to repent `{{G3340}}` [[Acts 17:30]].
* **A Shift in Divine Dealing:** In Acts, it marks a transition from a past time of God's forbearance with ignorance `{{G52}}` to a present, universal call for repentance, indicating a new phase in God's redemptive work [[Acts 17:30]].
* **A Point of Decision:** The term is used to introduce critical advice or a plea that requires a decision. This is seen when Gamaliel presents his counsel `{{G1012}}` to the assembly [[Acts 5:38]] and when the believers pray for boldness `{{G3954}}` in the face of threats [[Acts 4:29]].
* **An Expression of Present Trust:** `{{G3569}}` frames moments of conscious reliance on God. Paul commends `{{G3908}}` the brethren to God [[Acts 20:32]], and the disciples present their current troubles to the Lord `{{G2962}}` [[Acts 4:29]], both as acts of faith in the present.
### Summary
In summary, **tanŷn** `{{G3569}}` is a focused adverb that points to "the things **now**," emphasizing the immediate present. Though used only 5 times, its placement in the book of Acts is consistently strategic. It serves as a hinge, swinging the narrative from a past context to a present command, exhortation, or declaration of faith. From God's new command to repent [[Acts 17:30]] to Paul's encouragement in a storm [[Acts 27:22]], `{{G3569}}` highlights that the present moment is the decisive time for action and trust.
TRV