### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hṓra**, represented by `{{G5610}}`, is a term for an **hour**. It appears 108 times across 100 unique verses. While it can refer to a literal hour of the day, it is often used figuratively to denote a specific season, a divinely appointed time, or a critical moment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G5610}}` is used to mark both ordinary and monumental moments. It denotes literal divisions of the day, such as the **sixth** and **ninth hour** of darkness during the crucifixion [[Matthew 27:45]] and the **ninth hour** of prayer [[Acts 3:1]]. Figuratively, it signifies a pivotal, predetermined moment in God's plan. Jesus frequently refers to "his **hour**" as the appointed time for his suffering and glorification, stating at times that his **hour** had not yet come [[John 7:30]] and later declaring, "Father, the **hour** is come" [[John 17:1]]. It also describes eschatological events like the "hour of judgment" [[Revelation 14:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the temporal context of `{{G5610}}`:
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra** (day): This term for a broader period of time is often used with **hṓra** to emphasize the unknown timing of future events, such as the **day** and **hour** that no man knows [[Matthew 24:36]].
* `{{G2540}}` **kairós** (season, time): This word denotes an occasion or a proper time. It is used to describe a "short **time** (season)" [[1 Thessalonians 2:17]], showing a similar but distinct sense of a defined period.
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This verb is frequently paired with `{{G5610}}` to announce the arrival of a significant moment, as in the recurring phrase "the **hour** cometh" ([[John 4:23]], [[John 16:32]]).
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see, know): Used often in the negative, this word highlights the theme of uncertainty surrounding the final **hour**, reminding believers that they "**know** not what **hour** your Lord doth come" [[Matthew 24:42]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5610}}` is significant, centering on God's sovereignty over time and the proper response of humanity.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The concept of "the **hour**" underscores that key events, especially in the life of Christ, are not accidental but are fixed within a divine timetable. Jesus's actions were governed by the Father's appointed **hour** ([[John 13:1]], [[John 12:27]]).
* **Eschatological Watchfulness:** Scripture repeatedly uses `{{G5610}}` to teach that the exact **hour** of the Son of man's return is unknown [[Matthew 25:13]]. This fact serves as a command to "**watch** therefore," because the Lord will come at an **hour** when he is not expected ([[Luke 12:40]], [[Revelation 3:3]]).
* **A Moment of Judgment and Redemption:** The word marks climactic moments of divine intervention. It is used for the "hour of his judgment" upon the world [[Revelation 14:7]] but also for the **hour** when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and live [[John 5:25]]. It is the "**hour** of temptation" that will try the whole world [[Revelation 3:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5610}}` transcends its simple definition of a sixty-minute period. It is a critical theological concept that marks divinely appointed moments, illustrates the unknown timing of Christ's return, and calls for constant spiritual readiness. From a specific time of day for prayer to the climactic "last **hour**" of this age [[1 John 2:18]], `hṓra` reveals that for God, time is not merely a sequence but a canvas for His sovereign purpose.
TRV