### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tetrámēnon**, represented by `{{G5072}}`, defines **a four months' space**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its sole usage a specific temporal marker. It refers directly to the agricultural period of waiting between sowing and reaping.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G5072}}` occurs when Jesus addresses his disciples. He uses a common saying to contrast a natural timetable with a spiritual one, asking, "Say{G3004} not{G3756} ye{G5210}, There{G3754} are{G2076} yet{G2089} **four months{G5072}**, and{G2532} then cometh{G2064} harvest{G2326}?" [[John 4:35]]. This reference to a waiting period sets the stage for his teaching on the immediacy of the spiritual harvest, which he explains is "white{G3022} already{G2235} to{G4314} harvest{G2326}" [[John 4:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the verse clarify the contrast between natural and spiritual timing:
* `{{G2326}}` **therismós** (harvest): Defined as "reaping, i.e. the crop," this is the key event that the four-month wait anticipates. The passage contrasts the future agricultural harvest with the present spiritual one [[John 4:35]].
* `{{G2089}}` **éti** (yet, still): This word emphasizes the remaining time in the common saying, "There are **yet** four months" [[John 4:35]]. It establishes the human expectation of delay.
* `{{G2235}}` **ḗdē** (already, by this time): This provides the direct counterpoint to the waiting period. It is used to declare that the spiritual fields are "white **already** to harvest," highlighting immediate readiness [[John 4:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5072}}` is found entirely within its unique context.
* **Contrasting Timetables:** The term establishes a known, natural schedule to highlight a divine truth: God's timing for salvation is not bound by human expectations. The wait for a physical **harvest** `{{G2326}}` is contrasted with the immediate spiritual reality [[John 4:35]].
* **Spiritual Urgency:** The reference to **four months** `{{G5072}}` serves to underscore the urgency of the present moment. The call to "Lift up{G1869} your{G5216} eyes{G3788}, and{G2532} look on{G2300} the fields{G5561}" is a command to recognize that the opportunity is immediate [[John 4:35]].
* **Perception vs. Reality:** The phrase "Say{G3004} not{G3756} ye{G5210}" challenges a human assumption about timing. It teaches that spiritual readiness should not be measured by worldly calendars but by a divinely revealed perspective [[John 4:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5072}}` is more than a simple measurement of time. Its single appearance in scripture serves as a powerful rhetorical device. By referencing a well-known delay of **four months**, it creates a stark contrast that emphasizes the urgency and immediate availability of the spiritual **harvest** `{{G2326}}`. It demonstrates how a common understanding can be used to reveal a profound truth about the kingdom of God.
TRV