### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **trítos**, represented by `{{G5154}}`, is an ordinal number derived from `{{G5140}}` `treîs` (three) and primarily means **third**. It appears 57 times across 49 verses in the Bible. While its basic function is to denote the number three in a sequence, it also serves as a noun for "a third part" or as an adverb meaning "thirdly" or for "a third time," carrying significant weight in prophetic and narrative contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5154}}` is used in several critical ways. Most centrally, it establishes the timeline of Christ's resurrection, with numerous passages stating He would "be raised again the **third** day" ([[Matthew 16:21]], [[Luke 9:22]]). This usage underscores its fulfillment of prophecy, as noted in [[1 Corinthians 15:4]], that He "rose again the **third** day according to the scriptures." The book of Revelation uses the term extensively as "the **third part**" to describe the scope of divine judgments, such as when a **third part** of the trees and a **third part** of the sea were afflicted ([[Revelation 8:7]], [[Revelation 8:8]]). It also marks repetition or sequence, as when Jesus questioned Peter for the **third** time [[John 21:17]] or when Paul came to the Corinthians for the **third** time [[2 Corinthians 13:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related ordinal and cardinal numbers help establish the context for `{{G5154}}`:
* `{{G5140}}` **treîs** (three): As the cardinal number from which **trítos** is derived, it specifies a quantity of three. It is used alongside its ordinal counterpart in [[2 Corinthians 13:1]], establishing an event on the "**third** time" by the testimony of two or **three** witnesses.
* `{{G1208}}` **deúteros** (second): This ordinal number often appears in sequence with **trítos**. In [[Matthew 22:26]], a familial line of succession is described as involving the **second** and the **third** brothers.
* `{{G4413}}` **prōtos** (first): As the superlative for "foremost" or **first**, it is frequently used to begin a sequence that includes **trítos**. This is seen in [[Revelation 4:7]], which describes the **first** beast, the second beast, and the **third** beast.
* `{{G5067}}` **tétartos** (fourth): This word for **fourth** continues the ordinal sequence. In the description of the foundations of the new Jerusalem, the **third** foundation is a chalcedony and the **fourth** is an emerald [[Revelation 21:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5154}}` is profound, anchoring key doctrines and prophetic events.
* **The Resurrection:** The phrase "the **third** day" is a cornerstone of the Gospel message, signifying Christ's victory over death. Its repetition across the Gospels and Epistles establishes it as a non-negotiable, foundational fact of Christian faith ([[Luke 24:46]], [[Acts 10:40]]).
* **Divine Judgment:** In Revelation, "the **third part**" is a recurring measure of God's judgment, indicating a specific, significant, yet incomplete level of destruction. This is applied to the earth, the sea, the stars, and mankind itself, demonstrating God's sovereign control over the extent of His wrath ([[Revelation 8:12]], [[Revelation 9:15]]).
* **Spiritual Order:** The word is used adverbially as "**thirdly**" to delineate a divine order of roles within the church, following "first apostles" and "secondarily prophets" [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* **Divine Revelation:** Paul's experience of being "caught up to the **third** heaven" points to a realm of direct spiritual encounter with God, using the term to describe a level of celestial existence [[2 Corinthians 12:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5154}}` is far more than a simple numerical designator. It functions as a critical marker in biblical theology, defining the precise timing of Christ's resurrection, the measured scale of apocalyptic judgment, and the structure of spiritual authority. From the **third** day of the resurrection to the **third** part under judgment and the **third** heaven of revelation, **trítos** provides a framework for understanding some of scripture's most pivotal events and concepts.
TRV