### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhipḗ**, represented by `{{G4493}}`, means a jerk or, by analogy, an instant. Its English translation is "twinkling." The term is derived from ῥίπτω. It is a highly specific word, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, underscoring its unique contextual importance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4493}}` is found in [[1 Corinthians 15:52]], a key passage describing the resurrection of the dead. It is used in the phrase "in the **twinkling** of an eye" to convey the incredible speed of this event. This moment of transformation is further described as happening "in a moment" `{{G823}}` and "at the last trump" `{{G4536}}`, linking the instantaneous change of believers to a final, divine trumpet call.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G4493}}` is illuminated by several words used alongside it in its only context:
* `{{G823}}` **átomos** (moment): From a root meaning "uncut" or "indivisible," this word describes an "atom" of time. Its use with `{{G4493}}` in [[1 Corinthians 15:52]] reinforces the idea of an event that is immediate and cannot be divided into smaller parts.
* `{{G3788}}` **ophthalmós** (eye): This is the literal word for eye, which provides the physical reference for the action of a "twinkling." It is used both literally and figuratively throughout scripture to refer to sight and spiritual understanding [[Ephesians 1:18]].
* `{{G4536}}` **sálpinx** (trumpet): The "twinkling" of the eye occurs at the sound of the "last trump" [[1 Corinthians 15:52]]. This instrument is consistently associated with divine announcements and pivotal moments in scripture [[1 Thessalonians 4:16]].
### Theological Significance
Despite its single use, `{{G4493}}` carries significant theological weight, specifically in the area of eschatology.
* **Instantaneous Resurrection:** The word's primary theological contribution is to define the resurrection of believers as an event of unimaginable speed. Paired with "moment" `{{G823}}`, it leaves no room for a gradual or lengthy process of transformation [[1 Corinthians 15:52]].
* **The Final Divine Act:** Its placement at "the last trump" `{{G4536}}` situates this instantaneous event at the culmination of God's plan. The sound of the trumpet `{{G4537}}` signals the moment the dead are raised incorruptible and the living are changed.
* **Supernatural Power:** The concept of a "twinkling" or a "jerk of the eye" emphasizes a change that is supernatural. It illustrates an act of God that occurs outside the normal, observable passage of time, highlighting His power to bring about immediate and total transformation [[1 Corinthians 15:52]].
### Summary
In summary, **rhipḗ** `{{G4493}}` is a precise and impactful word whose entire biblical meaning is contained within a single verse. As the "twinkling" of an eye, it communicates the absolute suddenness of the resurrection and the transformation of believers. While appearing only once, its use in [[1 Corinthians 15:52]] makes it a cornerstone for understanding the instantaneous and supernatural nature of this key eschatological event, forever linking it to the sound of the final trumpet.
TRV