a phrase combining ὁ with the present participle and imperfect of εἰμί and the present participle of ἔρχομαι by means of καί; the one being and the one that was and the one coming, i.e. the Eternal, as a divine epithet of Christ:--which art (is, was), and (which) wast (is, was), and art (is) to come (shalt be).
Transliteration:ho ṑn kaí ho ēn kaí ho erchómenos
Pronunciation:ho own kahee ho ane kahee ho er-khom'-en-os
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek phrase **ho ṑn kaí ho ēn kaí ho erchómenos**, represented by `{{G3801}}`, is a divine epithet for Christ, meaning **the one being and the one that was and the one coming**, or simply, the Eternal. This title, which appears 15 times across 5 unique verses, is a construction combining participles for "being" `{{G5607}}`, "was" `{{G2258}}`, and "coming" `{{G2064}}` to articulate a singular, timeless existence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
This profound title is used exclusively in the book of Revelation to describe the nature of God. It serves as a formal introduction to the source of divine grace and peace, coming from "him which **is, and which was, and which is to come**" [[Revelation 1:4]]. The phrase is also a central part of heavenly worship, as the four beasts continually praise the "Lord God Almighty, which **was, and is, and is to come**" [[Revelation 4:8]]. It underscores God's absolute authority and eternality, particularly when He takes power and reigns [[Revelation 11:17]] and executes righteous judgment [[Revelation 16:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the attributes of the one described by `{{G3801}}`:
* `{{G3841}}` **pantokrátōr** (the all-ruling): This term for **Almighty** is frequently paired with `{{G3801}}` to emphasize the absolute and universal sovereignty of God as the eternal one [[Revelation 1:8]].
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (Lord): Meaning **supreme in authority**, this title identifies the one who "is, and was, and is to come" as the ultimate Master and controller, worthy of worship and thanksgiving [[Revelation 11:17]].
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (just): This word, meaning **equitable** or holy, is used to describe the character of the eternal Lord, connecting his timeless existence to his righteous judgments [[Revelation 16:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3801}}` is immense, defining the very essence of God's being.
* **Divine Eternality:** The phrase encapsulates God's timeless nature, existing across the past, present, and future. This is highlighted when the Lord declares, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending... which **is, and which was, and which is to come**" [[Revelation 1:8]].
* **Supreme Authority and Worship:** The title is invoked in moments of ultimate worship and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. Heavenly beings use this specific name to declare God **holy** and praise Him as the Lord God **Almighty** [[Revelation 4:8]].
* **Foundation of Judgment:** God's eternal nature is presented as the basis for His perfect righteousness. When the angel of the waters affirms God's justice, he addresses Him as the one "which **art, and wast, and shalt be**, because thou hast judged thus" [[Revelation 16:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3801}}` is far more than a title; it is a declaration of divine reality. It establishes God's unchanging and eternal existence as the foundation for His identity as the **Almighty** `{{G3841}}`, His authority as **Lord** `{{G2962}}`, and His character as **righteous** `{{G1342}}`. Confined to the visions of Revelation, this phrase consistently points to the God who transcends time and is the ultimate sovereign over all of creation, history, and eternity.
TRV