### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G5549}}` (chronízō) is derived from the noun `{{G5550}}` (chronos), meaning "time." Consequently, its core meaning is "to take time," "to spend time," or "to linger." It denotes a duration, often one that extends longer than anticipated or desired from a human perspective. The word itself does not inherently carry a negative connotation of intentional procrastination or failure, but rather describes the simple passage of time, which may result in a perceived "delay" or "tarrying." It can imply a period of waiting, an extended stay, or a postponement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G5549}}` appears five times in the New Testament, primarily in the Synoptic Gospels and the Epistle to the Hebrews:
* **[[Luke 1:21]]**: "And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and were wondering at his delaying in the temple." Here, `{{G5549}}` describes Zechariah's unusually long time inside the Holy Place, due to his encounter with the angel Gabriel. It's a descriptive use, highlighting a period of unexpected duration that caused the people to marvel.
* **[[Matthew 24:48]] / [[Luke 12:45]]**: In the Parable of the Wicked Servant, the servant says, "My master is delaying his coming." This use of `{{G5549}}` highlights the servant's presumption that the master's return is not imminent, leading to irresponsible and abusive behavior. The "delay" is a perceived one from the servant's perspective, which he uses as an excuse for unfaithfulness.
* **[[Matthew 25:5]]**: In the Parable of the Ten Virgins, it is stated, "While the bridegroom was delaying, they all became drowsy and fell asleep." This passage underscores the prolonged period of waiting for the bridegroom, which tests the preparedness and vigilance of the virgins. The "delay" here is a test of endurance and foresight.
* **[[Hebrews 10:37]]**: "For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not delay." This is a direct quotation from [[Habakkuk 2:3]] (LXX), applied to the second coming of Christ. This verse is crucial as it assures believers that despite any human perception of "delay," Christ's return is certain and will occur precisely at God's appointed time, without deviation from His divine schedule. The "delay" is only from a limited human viewpoint, not from God's eternal perspective.
In summary, `{{G5549}}` often describes a period of waiting or prolonged expectation, which serves as a test of faith, patience, and readiness, particularly in eschatological contexts.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G5550}}` (chronos)**: The root noun, meaning "time" (chronological time). `{{G5549}}` is literally "to make time" or "to take time."
* **`{{G2540}}` (kairos)**: This word signifies "opportune time" or "appointed time," distinct from the linear `{{G5550}}`. While `{{G5549}}` relates to the duration of `{{G5550}}`, the "delay" often impacts the human perception of the `{{G2540}}` of an event.
* **`{{G1021}}` (bradynō)**: To be slow, to delay. This word is closely synonymous with `{{G5549}}`, often used interchangeably in some contexts. While `{{G5549}}` emphasizes the *duration* of the delay, `{{G1021}}` emphasizes the *slowness* of the action itself.
* **`{{G4328}}` (prosdokaō)**: To await, expect. The concept of "delay" inherently implies an object of expectation, making this a related concept.
* **`{{G5281}}` (hypomonē)**: Endurance, steadfastness. This virtue is frequently called for when there is a perceived "delay" (`{{G5549}}`) in the fulfillment of divine promises, particularly the Lord's return.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5549}}` is profound, particularly in its eschatological applications:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Timing**: The "delay" of Christ's return, as perceived by humanity, is not an indication of divine forgetfulness or impotence, but rather an outworking of God's perfect and sovereign timing. God operates according to His own eternal `{{G5550}}` and `{{G2540}}`, which transcend human comprehension and impatience (cf. [[2 Peter 3:8-9]]). The ultimate assurance in [[Hebrews 10:37]] underscores that from God's perspective, there is no true "delay" in His plan.
* **Call to Vigilance and Preparedness**: The parables where `{{G5549}}` appears ([[Matthew 24:48]], [[Matthew 25:5]], [[Luke 12:45]]) serve as urgent admonitions for continuous watchfulness, faithfulness, and readiness. The "delay" becomes a crucial test, exposing the true state of one's heart and commitment. It highlights the danger of spiritual complacency and the necessity of living in constant anticipation of the Lord's return.
* **Patience and Endurance in Waiting**: The perceived "delay" necessitates `{{G5281}}` (endurance) on the part of believers. This period of waiting is often a crucible for spiritual growth, character formation, and a deepening of faith. It calls for patient perseverance in hope, even when the fulfillment of promises seems distant.
* **Assurance of Fulfillment**: Despite the human experience of time passing, [[Hebrews 10:37]] provides an unwavering assurance that God's promises, especially the promised return of Christ, will be fulfilled precisely at the appointed moment. This divine faithfulness serves as a bedrock for Christian hope and perseverance.
### Summary
`{{G5549}}` (chronízō) is a Greek verb meaning "to take time," "to linger," or "to delay," derived from `{{G5550}}` (chronos), "time." In the New Testament, it primarily describes a perceived "delay" in the master's (Christ's) return within parables ([[Matthew 24:48]], [[Matthew 25:5]], [[Luke 12:45]]), serving as a catalyst for testing the faithfulness and preparedness of His servants. It also describes Zechariah's extended stay in the temple ([[Luke 1:21]]). Crucially, [[Hebrews 10:37]] assures believers that God's promises, including Christ's coming, will not "delay" from His divine perspective, emphasizing His perfect timing and faithfulness. The word thus underscores profound theological themes of divine sovereignty over time, the imperative for human vigilance and readiness, and the call to patient endurance while awaiting the Lord's certain return.
TRV