ἐφάπαξ
ephapax
once/at once
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ἐφάπαξ (ephapax) is a significant term that conveys the idea of "once" or "at once." Its short definition provides a clear understanding of its meaning, indicating that it is used to describe a singular event or action that occurs only once. This word is used a total of 5 times in the Bible, suggesting its importance in conveying a sense of finality or uniqueness. The range of usage for ἐφάπαξ is quite broad, as it can be used in various contexts to emphasize the singular nature of an event. For example, it can be used to describe a one-time sacrifice, a single act of obedience, or a unique experience. This versatility highlights the significance of ἐφάπαξ in conveying the idea of something that is done or experienced only once. The significance of ἐφάπαξ lies in its ability to convey a sense of permanence and finality. When used in the Bible, it often underscores the idea that something is done or accomplished once and for all, without the possibility of repetition or reversal. This emphasis on singularity and finality adds depth and meaning to the text, highlighting the importance of the event or action being described.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
5 total occurrences across the text
Then he appeared to over five hundred brothers at once, most of whom remain until now, but some have also fallen asleep.
Hebrews 7:27who doesn’t need, like those high priests, to offer up sacrifices daily, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. For he did this once for all, when he offered up himself.
Hebrews 9:12nor yet through the blood of goats and calves, but through his own blood, entered in once for all into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption.
Romans 6:10For the death that he died, he died to sin one time; but the life that he lives, he lives to God.
Hebrews 10:10by which will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.