### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb πέρυσι (pérysi) `{{G4070}}` denotes a specific temporal reference: "last year" or "a year ago." It is derived from the noun πέρας (peras) `{{G4009}}`, which signifies an "end," "boundary," or "limit." Thus, πέρυσι literally points to a point in time that has reached its conclusion, specifically a completed annual cycle. Its semantic range is narrow, exclusively marking a past temporal period relative to the present.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πέρυσι `{{G4070}}` appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Apostle Paul's Second Letter to the Corinthians:
* [[2 Corinthians 8:10]]: "And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago." (KJV)
In this passage, Paul is addressing the Corinthians regarding their participation in the collection for the impoverished saints in Jerusalem. He commends their initial eagerness and initiative, noting that they had "begun before" (προενήρξασθε) and were "forward a year ago" (πέρυσι ἤρξασθε). The phrase "a year ago" serves as a temporal marker, highlighting the duration of their commitment or the time since their initial resolve. Paul uses this past action as a basis for encouraging them to complete what they had so enthusiastically started. The context underscores the importance of not merely intending good works, but bringing them to fruition, demonstrating consistency in Christian giving and service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation is to its root, πέρας (peras) `{{G4009}}`, meaning "end" or "limit." This connection reinforces the idea of a completed temporal boundary. While πέρυσι `{{G4070}}` is unique in its specific reference to "last year," it belongs to a broader category of temporal adverbs in the New Testament that mark past time, such as:
* χθές (chthes) `{{G5507}}`: "yesterday"
* πάλαι (palai) `{{G3819}}`: "long ago," "of old"
* πρότερον (proteron) `{{G4386}}`: "formerly," "before"
Unlike these more general terms, πέρυσι provides a precise temporal frame, emphasizing a specific annual cycle that has passed. The concept of completing what was begun ([[Philippians 1:6]]) is also implicitly related, as the passage in [[2 Corinthians 8:10]] uses the past action (πέρυσι) to spur present completion.
### Theological Significance
Although πέρυσι `{{G4070}}` is a simple temporal adverb, its singular New Testament occurrence in [[2 Corinthians 8:10]] carries subtle theological implications within its hortatory context.
1. **The Importance of Following Through**: The primary theological significance lies in its role in Paul's exhortation for the Corinthians to complete their benevolent work. Their eagerness "a year ago" is commendable, but Paul's point is that initial zeal must mature into concrete action. This speaks to the biblical principle that good intentions must be followed by faithful execution ([[James 2:17]]). It underscores the call for perseverance and completion in Christian service, reminding believers that God desires not only a willing heart but also a diligent hand.
2. **Stewardship of Time and Opportunity**: The passing of a year, as indicated by πέρυσι, subtly highlights the reality of time's passage and the need to seize opportunities for good. The Corinthians had an opportunity "a year ago," and now Paul is urging them to bring that opportunity to its intended conclusion before more time elapses. This implicitly speaks to the stewardship of time and resources that God entrusts to believers.
3. **Encouragement through Past Faithfulness**: Paul uses their past faithfulness ("a year ago") as a point of encouragement and a basis for present action. This demonstrates a pastoral strategy of affirming past good deeds to motivate future obedience, a practice rooted in God's remembrance of His people's service.
### Summary
πέρυσι (pérysi) `{{G4070}}` is a Greek adverb meaning "last year" or "a year ago," derived from πέρας (peras) `{{G4009}}`, signifying an "end" or "limit." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[2 Corinthians 8:10]] is crucial for understanding Paul's appeal to the Corinthians regarding their contribution to the Jerusalem collection. By referencing their initial enthusiasm "a year ago," Paul emphasizes the importance of completing good intentions and bringing their benevolent work to fruition. Theologically, πέρυσι underscores the principles of perseverance in Christian service, the responsible stewardship of time and opportunities, and the pastoral affirmation of past faithfulness as a catalyst for continued obedience. It serves as a subtle yet potent reminder that divine calling requires not only an eager start but also a faithful finish.
TRV