### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
G5154 (τρίτος, *trítos*) is an ordinal numeral derived from G5140 (τρεῖς, *treis*), meaning "three." Its fundamental meaning is "third." The semantic range of G5154 encompasses several nuances:
* **Ordinal Position:** Primarily, it denotes the position in a sequence, indicating something that comes after the first and second (e.g., the third day, the third hour).
* **Fractional Part:** When used in the neuter singular as a noun (τρίτον, *tríton*), it signifies "a third part" or "one-third" of a whole.
* **Repetitive Action:** As an adverb (often implicitly), it can indicate an action occurring "a third time" or "thirdly."
This versatility allows G5154 to convey precise chronological, quantitative, and sequential information within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G5154 appears frequently in the New Testament, often carrying significant theological weight beyond its simple numerical value.
* **Chronological Significance:**
* The most prominent and theologically crucial usage is in reference to the "third day" (τῇ τρίτῃ ἡμέρᾳ), consistently marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ ([[Matthew 16:21]], [[Matthew 17:23]], [[Matthew 20:19]], [[Luke 9:22]], [[Luke 18:33]], [[Luke 24:7]], [[Luke 24:46]], [[Acts 10:40]], [[1 Corinthians 15:4]]). This recurring phrase emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy and the divine timing of salvation history.
* References to the "third hour" (τρίτη ὥρα) often pinpoint significant moments, such as the time of Christ's crucifixion ([[Mark 15:25]]) or the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost ([[Acts 2:15]]).
* The "third watch of the night" ([[Luke 12:38]]) denotes a specific period of vigilance or expectation.
* **Sequential and Ordinal Contexts:**
* In various enumerations, G5154 simply marks the third item in a series, such as the "third woe" ([[Revelation 11:14]]), the "third angel" ([[Revelation 14:9]]), or the "third bowl" of God's wrath ([[Revelation 16:4]]).
* The "third heaven" mentioned by Paul in [[2 Corinthians 12:2]] is a profound and debated reference, suggesting a transcendent spiritual realm or the highest dwelling place of God.
* In the description of the New Jerusalem, the "third foundation" ([[Revelation 21:20]]) is adorned with chalcedony, contributing to the city's symbolic perfection.
* **Fractional Representation:**
* Particularly in the book of Revelation, "a third" (τρίτον) is employed to describe the scope of divine judgments, impacting a third of the earth, trees, sea, ships, living creatures, sun, moon, and stars ([[Revelation 8:7-12]], [[Revelation 9:15]], [[Revelation 9:18]], [[Revelation 12:4]]). This numerical precision indicates a severe, yet not total, devastation, hinting at divine restraint or a phased unfolding of judgment.
* **Repetitive Action/Adverbial Use:**
* The phrase "a third time" (τρίτον) often highlights a climactic or decisive repetition. Jesus' repeated prayer in Gethsemane occurs "a third time" ([[Matthew 26:44]]). Peter's denial of Jesus is marked by a "third time" ([[Matthew 26:75]], [[Mark 14:72]]), which is later mirrored by Jesus' threefold question to Peter in [[John 21:17]], reaffirming his love and commission. Paul's intention to visit the Corinthians for a "third time" ([[2 Corinthians 12:14]], [[2 Corinthians 13:1]]) underscores his persistent pastoral care and the establishment of truth through multiple witnesses.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **G5140 (τρεῖς, *treis*):** The cardinal number "three," from which G5154 is derived. The significance of the number three in biblical numerology is extensive, often symbolizing completeness, divine perfection, or a conclusive witness (e.g., the Trinity, three days in the tomb, three witnesses required for testimony in [[Deuteronomy 19:15]] and [[2 Corinthians 13:1]]). The ordinal "third" frequently marks the culmination or decisive point associated with these symbolic meanings.
* **Resurrection:** The "third day" is inextricably linked to the resurrection of Christ, which is the foundational truth of Christian faith and hope. This connection imbues G5154 with profound soteriological and eschatological significance.
* **Divine Judgment:** In Revelation, the recurring "third" as a measure of judgment signifies a specific, often severe, but not always complete, divine intervention. This contrasts with total destruction, suggesting a degree of mercy, a progressive unfolding of wrath, or a partial judgment before ultimate consummation.
* **Witness and Confirmation:** The concept of "three" as a number of witness and confirmation is rooted in Old Testament legal principles. The "third" instance or witness provides definitive proof or establishment of a matter.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of G5154 are rich and multifaceted:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Timing:** The repeated emphasis on the "third day" for Christ's resurrection powerfully affirms God's precise control over history and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It is a testament to His power over sin and death, central to the Gospel message.
* **Completeness and Perfection:** The association of "three" with divine completeness and the Trinity extends to the "third" as often marking a point of culmination or perfection. The "third heaven" suggests a realm of ultimate divine presence and glory.
* **Measured Judgment and Redemption:** In Revelation, the fractional "third" in judgments is highly significant. It indicates a substantial, widespread impact of divine wrath, yet it is not total annihilation. This can be interpreted as God's mercy, allowing time for repentance, or a strategic progression of judgments leading to a final, complete reckoning. It underscores that even in judgment, God's actions are purposeful and measured.
* **Persistence and Climax:** The "third time" often denotes a climactic or decisive moment, whether it is Jesus' persistent prayer in Gethsemane or Paul's determined pastoral visits. It signifies a point of no return, a final confirmation, or a resolute act.
### Summary
G5154 (τρίτος, *trítos*) is the Greek ordinal numeral for "third," functioning also as a neuter noun for "a third part" and adverbially for "a third time." Its usage in the New Testament transcends simple enumeration, carrying profound theological weight. Most notably, it marks the "third day" of Christ's resurrection, a cornerstone of Christian faith and a testament to God's precise timing and triumph over death. In the prophetic visions of Revelation, "a third" frequently denotes the measured yet severe extent of divine judgments, highlighting both God's wrath and His potential restraint. Beyond these, G5154 underscores concepts of completeness, divine witness, and persistent action, thereby imbuing seemingly straightforward numerical references with deep meaning concerning God's sovereign plan, His just dealings, and His redemptive purposes throughout history.
TRV