Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Maran-atha" is an Aramaic phrase found in the New Testament, specifically in 1 Corinthians 16:22. It is a compound of two Aramaic words: "Maran," meaning "our Lord," and "atha," meaning "has come" or "come." The phrase can be translated as "Our Lord, come" or "Our Lord has come," depending on the context and interpretation. Biblical Reference: 1 Corinthians 16:22 : "If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be under a curse. Maran-atha." Contextual Analysis: In 1 Corinthians 16:22, the Apostle Paul uses "Maran-atha" as a solemn declaration at the conclusion of his letter to the Corinthian church. This phrase serves as both a warning and a hope. The warning is directed towards those who do not love the Lord, indicating that they are under a curse. The hope is encapsulated in the invocation of the Lord's coming, which is a central theme in Christian eschatology. Theological Significance: "Maran-atha" holds significant theological weight in Christian doctrine. It reflects the early Christian anticipation of the Second Coming of Christ. The phrase encapsulates the dual aspect of Christ's work: His first coming, which brought salvation, and His anticipated return, which will bring final judgment and the fulfillment of God's kingdom. The use of an Aramaic phrase in a Greek letter suggests the early and widespread use of this expression among Christians, indicating its importance in the liturgical and communal life of the early church. It serves as a reminder of the imminent return of Christ and the need for readiness and faithfulness among believers. Liturgical and Devotional Use: Throughout Christian history, "Maran-atha" has been used in liturgical settings as a prayerful invocation for Christ's return. It is a cry of longing and expectation, expressing the believer's desire for the consummation of God's redemptive plan. In personal devotion, it serves as a reminder of the transient nature of this world and the eternal hope found in Christ. Historical and Cultural Context: The use of Aramaic in the New Testament reflects the linguistic and cultural milieu of the early Christian community, which was deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. Aramaic was the common language of the Jewish people in Palestine during the time of Jesus and the early church. The retention of Aramaic phrases in the Greek New Testament highlights the continuity between the Jewish roots of Christianity and its expansion into the Gentile world. Conclusion: While "Maran-atha" is a brief phrase, its implications are profound, encapsulating the hope, urgency, and expectation that characterize the Christian faith. It serves as a powerful reminder of the Lord's past and future work, urging believers to live in anticipation of His return. Greek 3134. marana tha -- (our) Lord, come! ... Maranatha. Of Chaldee origin (meaning our Lord has come); maranatha, ie An exclamation of the approaching divine judgment -- Maran-atha. (tha) -- 1 Occurrence. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3134.htm - 6k Library Anathema and Grace The Song of the Redeemed 1 Cor. xvi. 10 The Same Subject Continued. Prayer after Communion. Of the Persons by Whom, and the Uses for Which, Ecclesiastical ... Letter xxvi. To Marcella. None of Your Party, O Manes, Will You Make a Galatian... Definitive Form of the Ideas of Jesus Respecting the Kingdom of ... Didache Ton Dodeka Apostolon Thesaurus Maranatha (1 Occurrence)... an invitation for his speedy reappearance (compare Revelation 22:20); maranatha, or maranatha): Used in connection with anathema, "accursed" (1 Corinthians 16 ... /m/maranatha.htm - 8k Maran-atha (1 Occurrence) Maran (1 Occurrence) Maranathamaranatha (1 Occurrence) Anathema (6 Occurrences) Loveth (88 Occurrences) Atha (1 Occurrence) Syriac (2 Occurrences) Premillennial Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Maran-atha (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 16:22 Subtopics Related Terms |
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