from ῥίπτω; a jerk (of the eye, i.e. (by analogy) an instant):--twinkling.
Transliteration:rhipḗ
Pronunciation:hree-pay'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word rhipḗ (G4493) originates from the verb rhiptō (ῥίπτω, `{{G4496}}`), which means "to throw," "cast," or "fling." This etymological root suggests a sudden, quick, or abrupt motion. In its core meaning, rhipḗ refers to a "jerk" or a rapid, almost imperceptible movement, specifically exemplified by the "twinkling" or blink of an eye. Semantically, it extends from this literal physical action to denote an exceedingly brief, instantaneous period of time. The word's primary emphasis is on the extreme brevity and suddenness of an event, highlighting its immediate and unhesitating occurrence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term rhipḗ (G4493) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Apostle Paul's first letter to the Corinthians:
* [[1 Corinthians 15:52]]: "in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed."
In this singular occurrence, rhipḗ is part of the idiomatic phrase "in the twinkling of an eye" (ἐν ῥιπῇ ὀφθαλμοῦ). This phrase serves as a powerful descriptor of the speed and suddenness with which the eschatological transformation of believers will occur at the resurrection. Paul employs it to emphasize that the profound change from corruptible to incorruptible, from mortal to immortal, will not be a gradual process but an immediate, instantaneous event. The preceding phrase "in a moment" (ἐν ἀτόμῳ, from atomos, an indivisible unit of time) further reinforces this absolute brevity. The context is the climax of redemptive history, where the physical bodies of believers, both those who have died and those who are alive, will be instantaneously glorified. This passage underscores God's immense power to effect such a radical and complete transformation without any delay.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Root Verb:** rhiptō (ῥίπτω, `{{G4496}}`): The verb from which rhipḗ is derived, meaning "to throw" or "cast," reinforces the idea of sudden, decisive action, though in a different semantic domain (physical action versus temporal brevity).
* **Temporal Concepts:**
* atomos (ἄτομος, "indivisible"): Though not a distinct Strong's entry, this concept is implied by the word "moment" in [[1 Corinthians 15:52]] and is directly parallel to rhipḗ in conveying an indivisible unit of time, an instant.
* chronos (χρόνος, `{{G5550}}`): Refers to general duration of time.
* kairos (καιρός, `{{G2540}}`): Denotes an appointed, opportune, or specific time.
* hora (ὥρα, `{{G5610}}`): Means "hour" or "season," often used for a specific point in time.
* **Contrast:** rhipḗ stands in stark contrast to terms that denote prolonged time or gradual development. Its very essence is immediate, abrupt change, highlighting the divine capacity for instantaneous action.
* **Divine Action:** The concept of an instantaneous event is frequently associated with divine, miraculous intervention, where God acts decisively and swiftly to accomplish His purposes.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of rhipḗ in [[1 Corinthians 15:52]] carries profound theological weight:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Omnipotence:** The "twinkling of an eye" powerfully conveys God's absolute sovereignty and omnipotence. The resurrection and transformation of believers will not be a laborious or lengthy process but a swift, effortless act of divine power, demonstrating God's complete control over time, matter, and life itself.
* **Hope and Assurance:** For believers, this imagery offers immense hope and assurance regarding the future resurrection. It signifies that the promised glorification will be a sudden, complete, and undeniable reality, removing any doubt about its fulfillment or its nature. The transformation is immediate and perfect.
* **Eschatological Certainty:** The instantaneous nature of the event highlights the definitive and unalterable character of the eschatological climax. It will occur precisely at God's appointed time, without any delay once that moment arrives, underscoring the certainty of prophetic fulfillment.
* **Radical Transformation:** The word emphasizes the radical and complete nature of the change from a corruptible, mortal body to an incorruptible, immortal one. This change is not partial or incremental but absolute and instantaneous, a testament to God's power to renew and perfect.
### Summary
The Greek word rhipḗ (G4493), stemming from rhiptō (`{{G4496}}`, "to throw"), precisely denotes an extremely brief, instantaneous moment, famously rendered as "the twinkling of an eye." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[1 Corinthians 15:52]] is pivotal, describing the sudden and immediate nature of the resurrection and glorification of believers at the sound of the last trumpet. This usage profoundly underscores God's absolute power and sovereignty in effecting instantaneous and complete transformation. rhipḗ contrasts sharply with notions of prolonged or gradual processes, emphasizing the swiftness and decisiveness of divine action in eschatological events. It stands as a powerful testament to the immediate and perfect work of God in bringing about the ultimate redemption and glorification of His people.
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