### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hýsteron**, represented by `{{G5305}}`, serves as an adverb meaning **afterward** or **at the last**. It appears **12 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is used to mark a point in time that follows a preceding event, indicating sequence, consequence, or a final action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5305}}` is used to frame crucial moments of change, consequence, and finality. It highlights the outcome that follows a period of trial, such as the hunger Jesus felt **afterward** from fasting for forty days [[Matthew 4:2]]. It also describes a change of heart, as seen in the parable of the two sons, where one initially refused his father’s request but **afterward** repented and went [[Matthew 21:29]]. The word can also denote a final, climactic act, such as when the landowner, **last of all**, sent his son to the vineyard after his servants had been rejected [[Matthew 21:37]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of sequence and consequence:
* `{{G3338}}` **metaméllomai** (to care afterwards, i.e. regret): This term is directly linked to `{{G5305}}`, signifying a change of mind that happens at a later time. In the parable of the two sons, the one who at first refused his father **afterward** `repented` [[Matthew 21:29]].
* `{{G1788}}` **entrépō** (to invert, i.e. (figuratively and reflexively) in a good sense, to respect; or in a bad one, to confound): This word describes the expected response to a final action. When the landowner sent his son `last of all` `{{G5305}}`, he did so believing, "They will `reverence` my son" [[Matthew 21:37]].
* `{{G3918}}` **páreimi** (to be near, i.e. at hand; neuter present participle (singular) time being, or (plural) property): This term provides a direct contrast to `{{G5305}}` by describing the immediate moment. It is used to distinguish a current hardship from its eventual result: "no chastening for the **present** seemeth to be joyous... nevertheless **afterward** it yieldeth the peaceable fruit" [[Hebrews 12:11]].
* `{{G3679}}` **oneidízō** (to defame, i.e. rail at, chide, taunt): This describes an action that Jesus took **afterward**. He appeared to the eleven and `upbraided` them for their unbelief concerning his resurrection [[Mark 16:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5305}}` is significant, often underscoring a key spiritual principle.
* **The Fruit of Discipline:** The word is central to understanding divine discipline. While chastening is grievous in the moment, it is **afterward** that it "yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness" [[Hebrews 12:11]], revealing God's sanctifying purpose over time.
* **The Possibility of Repentance:** The use of **afterward** highlights the critical window for a change of heart. The publicans and harlots believed John, but the religious leaders did not repent **afterward** to believe him, demonstrating a final choice against God [[Matthew 21:32]].
* **Christ as the Final Messenger:** In the parable of the wicked husbandmen, the owner sends his son **last of all** [[Matthew 21:37]], which theologically frames Jesus as God's ultimate and final revelation to His people, following the prophets.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5305}}` is more than a simple chronological marker. It is a word that structures theological understanding, emphasizing that the significance of an event is often found in what comes later. It frames concepts of repentance, the purpose of suffering, and the finality of Christ's mission. By marking the transition from a present experience to a future outcome, **hýsteron** demonstrates how timing and sequence are essential to interpreting God's redemptive work.
TRV