αἰώνιος

The Greek adjective aiṓnios is widely used in the New Testament to describe that which pertains to an aiṓn (age or epoch). While it frequently conveys the idea of unending duration, its primary meaning is not simply "eternal" in the philosophical sense, but rather "pertaining to an age" or "age-long." The specific age, and thus the duration, is determined by the context. For instance, it can refer to an age already past, the present age, or an age to come. Therefore, the English translation "eternal" or "everlasting" although common, should be understood in light of this nuanced temporal connection, rather than always implying an abstract, timeless existence. The concept of aiṓnios is frequently applied to God himself and divine realities, emphasizing their enduring nature and relationship to God's purpose within and beyond specific ages. When applied to God, it highlights his transcendence over all temporal limitations, underscoring his sovereign power throughout all ages. The Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament, uses aiṓnios to translate the Hebrew word olam, which similarly has a broad semantic range, often referring to a long, indefinite period.