### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nýx**, represented by `{{G3571}}`, is a primary word for **"night"**. It appears 65 times across 62 unique verses in the Bible. While its primary meaning is the literal period of darkness, it is also used figuratively to represent concepts of spiritual ignorance, danger, and the time preceding a significant divine event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3571}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It denotes the literal time of day, often a period for toil, such as when the disciples fished all **night** and caught nothing [[Luke 5:5]]. It is also a time for significant events to unfold under the cover of darkness, including Nicodemus’s visit to Jesus [[John 3:2]] and Paul’s visions [[Acts 18:9]]. Figuratively, **night** is contrasted with day to symbolize a state of spiritual unawareness. Paul urges believers to cast off the works of darkness because "the **night** is far spent, the day is at hand" [[Romans 13:12]]. The "day of the Lord" is described as coming unexpectedly, like "a thief in the **night**" [[1 Thessalonians 5:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3571}}`:
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra** (day): This is the direct counterpart to **night**, frequently used in the phrase "day and **night**" to signify continuous action, such as ceaseless prayer [[Luke 18:7]] or worship [[Revelation 4:8]]. It also represents the time of light and salvation that will supersede the spiritual **night** [[Romans 13:12]].
* `{{G4655}}` **skótos** (darkness): This word is often used as a figurative synonym for the spiritual condition represented by **night**. Believers are told they are not of the **night** nor of **darkness** [[1 Thessalonians 5:5]] and are to cast off the "works of **darkness**" [[Romans 13:12]].
* `{{G5457}}` **phōs** (light): As the direct opposite of both **night** and darkness, **light** represents truth, holiness, and the presence of God. A person who walks in the **night** stumbles because there is no **light** in him [[John 11:10]], whereas believers are called "children of **light**" [[1 Thessalonians 5:5]].
* `{{G2812}}` **kléptēs** (thief): This term is metaphorically linked to **night** to describe the sudden and unexpected nature of the Day of the Lord, which will arrive "as a **thief** in the **night**" [[2 Peter 3:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3571}}` is significant, symbolizing several key spiritual realities.
* **The Present Age of Spiritual Ignorance:** The **night** often represents the current era, a time of moral and spiritual darkness before Christ's final return. Believers are warned against the behaviors associated with this darkness, such as drunkenness and sleeping, which happen in the **night** [[1 Thessalonians 5:7]].
* **A Time of Enduring Faithfulness:** Despite its negative connotations, the **night** is also portrayed as a time for persistent devotion. The elect cry out to God "day and **night**" [[Luke 18:7]], and Paul speaks of serving God and preaching "night and day" ([[2 Timothy 1:3]]; [[1 Thessalonians 2:9]]).
* **The Prelude to Judgment:** The association of **night** with the coming of a thief highlights its role as the period immediately preceding sudden divine judgment and intervention [[1 Thessalonians 5:2]].
* **A Temporary State to be Abolished:** In the eternal state, the conditions symbolized by **night** are completely eliminated. In the new creation, "there shall be no **night** there," for the glory of God provides the light ([[Revelation 21:25]]; [[Revelation 22:5]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3571}}` **nýx** carries a meaning that extends far beyond the literal setting of the sun. It functions as a powerful biblical symbol for the time of spiritual darkness, trial, and waiting that characterizes the present age. It stands in stark contrast to the "day" of salvation and divine presence, serving as a reminder of both the present spiritual reality and the future hope when **night** will be no more.
TRV