The concept of Length of time in Christianity
Length of time is a multifaceted concept in Protestantism, Catholicism, and Early Christianity. In Protestantism, it reflects the sun's consistent motion and God's unwavering purpose. In Catholicism, it explores the significance of Christ's time in the tomb, the nature of endurance, forgetfulness over extended periods, and implications for marriage validity and eternal punishment. Early Christianity views length of time as vital for achieving god-like status and fulfilling prophecies. Overall, it emphasizes the role of time in faith, endurance, and divine purpose across different traditions.
Synonyms: Duration, Period, Span, Time frame, Interval, Term, Season
In Dutch: Tijdsduur; In Finnish: Ajan pituus; In Spanish: Duración del tiempo; In German: Dauer; In Malay: Tempoh masa; In Swedish: °Õ¾±»å²õ±ôä²Ô²µ»å; In French: ¶Ù³Ü°ùé±ð
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Length of time'
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) An indefinite period referred to in the context of eternal punishment, indicating that it is not alleviated over time without mercy.[1] (2) The perception that prolonged duration causes forgetfulness, particularly relevant to the damned, suggesting a potential loss of earthly knowledge.[2] (3) The temporal aspect that may render a previously invalid marriage valid under certain circumstances if no impediments were known.[3] (4) The duration for which Christ's body remained in the tomb after His death, raising questions about the significance of this period.[4] (5) Describes the sustained nature of endurance compared to the suddenness associated with aggression.[5]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This refers to the amount of time one spends sleeping, emphasizing the need to keep it constant regardless of seasonal changes in the length of night.[6] (2) The passage of time that contributes to individuals achieving a god-like status in the perception of later generations.[7] (3) The duration of time spent in a state of repentance, which should not be mistaken as the primary indicator of true conversion.[8] (4) An indication of the historical timeline in which prophecies about Jesus were stated and fulfilled.[9]
From: The Existence and Attributes of God
(1) The duration over which the motion of the sun occurs, signifying the sun's consistent swiftness for ages.[10] (2) Refers to the duration from the first promise of the Redeemer to His mission, highlighting God's persistent purpose despite human provocations.[11]
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) The specific duration mentioned, from the sixth hour to the ninth hour, which marks the span in which the darkness was perceived.[12]