### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **próskairos**, represented by `{{G4340}}`, refers to that which is temporary or lasts only for an occasion. Derived from πρός and καιρός, its definition is for the occasion only, i.e. temporary. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, where it is translated as "temporal," "for a season," "for a time," or "for a while."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4340}}` consistently highlights a contrast between the fleeting and the permanent. It is used to describe the "things which are seen" as **temporal**, setting them in direct opposition to the unseen things which are eternal [[2 Corinthians 4:18]]. In the context of personal choice and faith, it describes the "pleasures of sin" as lasting only "for a season," a temporary indulgence that Moses chose to forgo [[Hebrews 11:25]]. Similarly, in the Parable of the Sower, it characterizes a shallow faith that "dureth for a while" because it lacks deep root, failing as soon as tribulation or persecution arises ([[Matthew 13:21]], [[Mark 4:17]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of what is temporary versus what is lasting:
* `{{G166}}` **aiṓnios** (perpetual): As the direct opposite of `{{G4340}}`, this word denotes what is **eternal** or everlasting. This contrast is the central point of the teaching that what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is **eternal** [[2 Corinthians 4:18]].
* `{{G4491}}` **rhíza** (root): This word is key to understanding why some faith is only temporary. A person who has no **root** in himself endures only for a time before being offended by hardship [[Matthew 13:21]].
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (pressure): This term for **tribulation** or affliction is the test that reveals the temporary nature of a shallow faith. When **tribulation** arises because of the word, one who is only temporary is offended [[Mark 4:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4340}}` is significant, teaching believers to properly value the temporal in light of the eternal.
* **Perspective on Worldliness:** The word establishes a fundamental Christian worldview that physical, seen realities are **temporal**, while spiritual, unseen realities are eternal and of greater importance [[2 Corinthians 4:18]].
* **The Nature of Superficial Faith:** It warns against a faith that is not deeply rooted. Such a faith is merely **próskairos** and will not survive the pressures of tribulation `{{G2347}}` and persecution `{{G1375}}` that are part of the Christian walk [[Matthew 13:21]].
* **The Choice of Lasting Value:** It frames moral and spiritual decisions as a choice between a **temporary** reward and an eternal one. The pleasures of sin are described as lasting only "for a season," making the choice to suffer affliction with God's people a wiser, eternally-minded decision [[Hebrews 11:25]].
### Summary
In summary, **próskairos** `{{G4340}}` is a crucial term for understanding the biblical distinction between the temporary and the eternal. It is not merely a descriptor of time but a theological concept that challenges believers to look beyond the seen world, develop a faith with deep roots, and choose what has lasting value over the fleeting pleasures of the moment. It underscores the call to live with an eternal perspective.
TRV