### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paidióthen**, represented by `{{G3812}}`, is an adverb meaning **from infancy** or **of a child**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This specific term is used to establish an event's origin point in a person's earliest years, signifying a long-standing condition or circumstance that began in childhood.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G3812}}` occurs in a narrative where Jesus encounters a father concerned for his son. Jesus **asked** `{{G1905}}` the **father** `{{G3962}}` about the affliction's duration, inquiring, "How long is it ago since this came unto him?" [[Mark 9:21]]. The father’s reply, "**Of a child**," uses **paidióthen** to communicate that the suffering was not a recent development but had plagued the boy since he was an infant. This establishes the deep-rooted nature of the problem, setting the context for the subsequent miracle.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Mark 9:21]] help clarify the situation:
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (father): This word identifies the man seeking help for his son. Beyond this literal role, it is the foundational term for God as the ultimate **Father** [[John 1:14]].
* `{{G1905}}` **eperōtáō** (to ask for, i.e. inquire, seek): This is the action of inquiry that prompts the father’s response. It is often used when individuals **ask** Jesus questions of great importance [[Mark 10:17]].
* `{{G5550}}` **chrónos** (a space of time): The question about "how long" uses this word for **time**. It refers to a general interval, in this case, the entire duration of the boy's life, which contrasts with God acting in the "fulness of the **time**" [[Galatians 4:4]].
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become (come into being)): This word describes when the condition "came" or began. It is used throughout Scripture to speak of things that **come into being**, most notably when "the Word was **made** flesh" [[John 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3812}}` is derived entirely from its narrative context, which points to larger spiritual truths.
* **The Depth of Human Need:** By establishing the condition as having existed **from infancy** [[Mark 9:21]], the word emphasizes a state of long-term, hopeless suffering that is beyond human remedy, thereby magnifying the need for divine power.
* **The Role of a Father's Faith:** The word is spoken by a **father** `{{G3962}}` who brings his long-suffering child to Jesus. This interaction serves as a model for believers approaching God the **Father** with persistent needs, trusting in His power to intervene where all else has failed.
* **The Contrast of Time:** The reference to the boy's entire lifetime (a long **chrónos**, `{{G5550}}`) highlights the limitations of human existence. The miracle that follows demonstrates that God's power is not constrained by **time** or the severity of a long-standing affliction.
### Summary
In summary, while **paidióthen** `{{G3812}}` is a rare word, its single appearance is significant. It functions as more than a simple marker of time; it frames a narrative of profound human suffering and desperation. By indicating a condition present "**of a child**" [[Mark 9:21]], it underscores the gravity of the situation and sets the stage for a powerful demonstration of divine authority and compassion, showing that no problem is too old or too deep for God to resolve.
TRV