neuter (as adverb) of a presumed compound of the article ὁ (t changed to s) and ἡμέρα; on the (i.e. this) day (or night current or just passed); generally, now (i.e. at present, hitherto):--this (to-)day.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sḗmeron**, represented by `{{G4594}}`, means **this day** or **to-day**. It appears 41 times across 40 unique verses, marking it as a significant term for indicating a specific, present moment. Derived from words meaning "the day," its usage ranges from a literal 24-hour period to a more general sense of "now" or "at present."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4594}}` is frequently used to anchor pivotal events and divine proclamations in a moment of immediate importance. It marks the announcement of the Savior's birth, "For unto you is born **this day** in the city of David a Saviour" [[Luke 2:11]], and the promise of salvation to Zacchaeus, "**This day** is salvation come to this house" [[Luke 19:9]]. Jesus uses it to offer assurance to the thief on the cross: "**To day** shalt thou be with me in paradise" [[Luke 23:43]]. The term is also used in instruction, as in the daily plea, "Give us **this day** our daily bread" [[Matthew 6:11]], and to describe a condition that persists "unto **this day**" [[Romans 11:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the temporal context of `{{G4594}}`:
* `{{G5504}}` **chthés** (yesterday): This word for "yesterday" is used in direct contrast to highlight endurance through time, as in Christ being the same "**yesterday**, and **to day**, and for ever" [[Hebrews 13:8]].
* `{{G839}}` **aúrion** (to-morrow): As the word for "to-morrow," it often appears alongside `{{G4594}}` to contrast the fleeting nature of the present with the immediate future, such as the grass which "**to day** is, and **to morrow** is cast into the oven" [[Matthew 6:30]].
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra** (day): This is the root word for **sḗmeron**, meaning a "day" or a period of time. It is often used with `{{G4594}}` to emphasize a specific date, such as "unto **this day**" [[Acts 20:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4594}}` is centered on immediacy and divine fulfillment.
* **The Day of Divine Proclamation:** The term repeatedly marks the moment of a divine declaration concerning the Son. God the Father's words, "Thou art my Son, **this day** have I begotten thee," are cited multiple times to establish Christ's authority ([[Hebrews 1:5]], [[Hebrews 5:5]], [[Acts 13:33]]).
* **The Urgent Call to Respond:** It emphasizes a critical window for hearing and obeying God. The warning to "harden not your hearts" is tied to the present moment: "**To day** if ye will hear his voice" ([[Hebrews 3:7]], [[Hebrews 3:15]], [[Hebrews 4:7]]). Believers are urged to exhort one another "while it is called **To day**" [[Hebrews 3:13]].
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** Jesus announces the start of His public ministry by declaring, "**This day** is this scripture fulfilled in your ears" [[Luke 4:21]], using the word to signify a pivotal moment in salvation history.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4594}}` is much more than a simple marker of time. It designates a decisive present, a moment charged with divine significance. Whether announcing the birth of the Messiah [[Luke 2:11]], calling for a response of faith [[Hebrews 4:7]], or marking the fulfillment of scripture [[Luke 4:21]], **sḗmeron** highlights the profound importance of "this day" in God's redemptive plan and in the life of a believer. It transforms the "now" from a passing moment into an occasion for divine action and human decision.
TRV