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G4594 · Greek · New Testament
σήμερον
Sēmeron
Adverb
Today, This Day

Definition

The Greek adverb sēmeron (σήμερον) means today or on this very day. It appears about 41 times in the New Testament and is often used with theological weight to emphasize present fulfillment, immediate opportunity, or urgency. It corresponds closely to the Hebrew yom used with demonstrative force.

Usage & Theological Significance

Sēmeron carries extraordinary theological freight in the New Testament. In Luke 4:21, Jesus reads from Isaiah 61 and declares, 'Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing' — sēmeron is the word that marks the arrival of the messianic age. In Luke 2:11, the angel announces: 'Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you.' The word 'today' in these passages is not merely temporal but eschatological — it signals the inbreaking of God's kingdom. Hebrews 3:7–13 quotes Psalm 95 — 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts' — and applies it urgently to the present generation. Salvation is always a today matter.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 4:21 He began by saying to them, 'Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.'
Luke 2:11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
Luke 23:43 Jesus answered him, 'Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.'
Hebrews 3:13 But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called 'Today,' so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.
2 Corinthians 6:2 For he says, 'In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.' I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.

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