### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ópsios**, represented by `{{G3798}}`, is a term for the **evening** or **eventide**. It appears **15 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible. As a noun, it designates the late part of the day, specifically the period from afternoon to nightfall, and is translated as even, evening, or eventide.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3798}}` is frequently used to mark a transition in the day, often appearing in the phrase "when the **even** was come" [[Matthew 8:16]]. It serves as the setting for significant events in Jesus's ministry. For instance, it is in the **evening**, after the sun had set, that people bring the sick and those possessed with devils to him for healing [[Mark 1:32]]. The term also frames crucial moments in the Passion narrative, such as the beginning of the final meal with the twelve disciples [[Matthew 26:20]] and the arrival of Joseph of Arimathaea to care for Jesus's body after the crucifixion [[Matthew 27:57]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of the evening:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become (come into being)): This word is consistently paired with `{{G3798}}` to signify that evening has arrived, as seen in the recurring phrase "when the **even** was come" [[Mark 4:35]].
* `{{G1416}}` **dýnō** (to go "down"): This verb is used specifically to describe the setting of the sun, an event that marks the arrival of the **even** [[Mark 1:32]].
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra** (day): This term provides the broader timeframe that `{{G3798}}` concludes. The two are used together to specify a precise moment, as in "the same **day** at **evening**" [[John 20:19]].
* `{{G5610}}` **hṓra** (an "hour" or "tide"): In one instance, this word is used directly with `{{G3798}}` to form the phrase "**eventide**" `{{G3798}}` `{{G5610}}`, emphasizing a specific time in the evening [[Mark 11:11]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3798}}` carries contextual significance by highlighting specific moments for divine activity and teaching.
* **A Time for Divine Action:** The evening is consistently portrayed as a time when pivotal events unfold. Jesus performs healings [[Matthew 8:16]], retreats to a mountain to pray alone [[Matthew 14:23]], and appears to his disciples after the resurrection [[John 20:19]].
* **Marking Culmination:** `{{G3798}}` often signifies the conclusion of a period of work or a major event. It is when the laborers in the vineyard are called to receive their wages [[Matthew 20:8]] and when the preparations for the Sabbath begin [[Mark 15:42]].
* **Context for Spiritual Discernment:** The word provides the setting for a lesson on spiritual perception. Jesus points to the red sky at **evening** as a sign of fair weather, contrasting the people's ability to read the sky with their inability to understand the signs of the times [[Matthew 16:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3798}}` **ópsios** is more than a simple chronological marker. It is a specific term for the evening that consistently frames key moments in the Gospels. It sets the stage for Christ's ministry, his Passion, and his resurrection, underscoring a recurring theme where the transition from day to night is also a time for divine revelation, culmination, and important spiritual lessons.
TRV