from a derivative of the same as ἀήρ (meaning a breeze, i.e. the morning air); properly, fresh, i.e. (adverb with ellipsis of ἡμέρα) to-morrow:--(to-)morrow, next day.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aúrion**, represented by `{{G839}}`, provides the foundational term for **to-morrow** or **next day**. It appears 15 times across 14 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition, derived from a word meaning "morning air," points to the immediate future, specifically the day that follows the present one.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G839}}` is used in several key ways. It is frequently employed to caution against human presumption and anxiety. James warns against those who confidently make plans for **to morrow**, reminding them that they do not know what the **morrow** will bring [[James 4:13-14]]. Similarly, Jesus instructs his followers to take no thought for the **morrow**, trusting in God's provision for the day at hand [[Matthew 6:34]]. The word also illustrates the fleeting nature of life, as seen in the description of grass that is alive "to day" and "**to morrow** is cast into the oven" ([[Matthew 6:30]], [[Luke 12:28]]). In other contexts, it simply marks the passage of time or a plan for the immediate future ([[Acts 4:3]], [[Acts 25:22]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the meaning of `{{G839}}` by providing contrast and context:
* `{{G4594}}` **sḗmeron** (this (to-)day): This word for "to day" is often used in direct contrast with `{{G839}}` to distinguish between the present reality and the uncertain future, as in "To day or **to morrow** we will go" [[James 4:13]].
* `{{G3309}}` **merimnáō** (to be anxious about): This term is explicitly forbidden in relation to **aúrion**. The command is to not "take thought for the **morrow**," linking the concept of the next day directly to the spiritual discipline of trust [[Matthew 6:34]].
* `{{G599}}` **apothnḗskō** (to die off): The reality of death gives `{{G839}}` a sense of finality in certain contexts. A worldly viewpoint is captured in the phrase "let us eat and drink; for **to morrow** we die" when resurrection is not believed [[1 Corinthians 15:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G839}}` is significant, centering on the themes of faith, sovereignty, and the proper human perspective on time.
* **Trust over Anxiety:** The concept of "**to-morrow**" is a primary subject in the Bible's teaching against anxiety. The command to not worry about the **morrow** is rooted in the assurance of God's providential care over all creation ([[Matthew 6:30]], 34).
* **Divine Sovereignty:** Scripture uses the uncertainty of what **aúrion** holds to underscore God's ultimate control over life and events. Human plans made without acknowledging this are portrayed as foolish presumption [[James 4:14]].
* **The Brevity of Life:** The word often appears in contexts that highlight the transient nature of human existence. The contrast between "to day" and "**to morrow**" serves as a reminder that life is a vapor and that worldly concerns are temporary ([[James 4:14]], [[Matthew 6:30]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G839}}` is more than a simple marker of time. While it literally means **to-morrow** or **next day**, it functions as a powerful theological concept in Scripture. It is used to teach believers about the importance of trusting in God's provision, the folly of arrogant planning, and the wisdom of living with an awareness of life's brevity. The word consistently draws a line between human perspective and divine reality, urging a focus on faithfulness today rather than anxiety about **to-morrow**.
TRV