### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chronízō**, represented by `{{G5549}}`, means **to take time, i.e. linger, delay, or tarry**. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from χρόνος, highlighting its connection to the concept of time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5549}}` is used to describe a period of waiting or a perceived delay. The people waiting for Zacharias wondered why he **tarried so long** in the temple [[Luke 1:21]]. The word carries significant eschatological weight in parables about the return of a master or bridegroom. In both Matthew and Luke, an evil servant wrongly assumes his lord **delayeth** his coming and falls into sinful behavior ([[Matthew 24:48]], [[Luke 12:45]]). Similarly, in the parable of the ten virgins, the bridegroom **tarried**, causing all the virgins to slumber and sleep [[Matthew 25:5]]. Conversely, Hebrews offers a promise that the one who is to come "will **not tarry**" [[Hebrews 10:37]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of delaying or tarrying:
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This word is frequently paired with `{{G5549}}` to describe the anticipated arrival that is being delayed, as in the servant's thought, "My lord delayeth his **coming**" [[Matthew 24:48]].
* `{{G4328}}` **prosdokáō** (to await): This term describes the state of active expectation during a delay. The people **waited** for Zacharias as he tarried in the temple [[Luke 1:21]].
* `{{G3573}}` **nystázō** (to slumber): This word illustrates a consequence of tarrying, as seen when the virgins **slumbered** while the bridegroom delayed [[Matthew 25:5]].
* `{{G3756}}` **ou** (no or not): This simple negative is crucial in [[Hebrews 10:37]], where it provides the assurance that the one who is coming will "**not** tarry," directly negating the idea of delay.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5549}}` is centered on the theme of waiting and divine timing, particularly in an eschatological context.
* **The Test of Faithfulness:** The delay of a returning master or bridegroom serves as a narrative device to test the faithfulness and preparedness of those waiting. The "evil servant" uses the delay as an excuse for wickedness [[Luke 12:45]], and the virgins are caught unprepared when the bridegroom **tarried** [[Matthew 25:5]].
* **Perception of Delay:** The use of `{{G5549}}` often reflects a human perspective of time. The evil servant concludes his lord **delayeth** [[Matthew 24:48]], and the people were concerned that Zacharias **tarried so long** [[Luke 1:21]]. This highlights the potential for doubt or wrong action when judging by human timetables.
* **Promise of No Delay:** The ultimate theological message counters the human feeling of delay with a divine promise. [[Hebrews 10:37]] uses the term to give assurance that, from God's perspective, the coming one "will **not tarry**," reinforcing the certainty of his return regardless of the perceived passage of time.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5549}}` **chronízō** is more than a simple reference to taking time. It is a key term in parables and prophecies that explore the tension between human expectation and divine sovereignty. It functions as a warning against unfaithfulness during periods of waiting, while also serving as a foundation for the promise that God's plan will unfold without ultimate delay. The word illustrates how a perceived delay can become a critical test of a person's heart and faith.
TRV