Maranatha etymology

Etymology

The word "Maranatha" is a transliteration of the Aramaic phrase "Marana tha," which literally means "Our Lord, come!"

Origin

The phrase "Maranatha" is found in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the First Epistle to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 16:22). It is believed to have been a common exclamation or prayer among early Christians, expressing their longing for the return of Jesus Christ.

Meaning

"Maranatha" has two primary meanings:

  1. Impending Return of Jesus: It serves as an urgent plea for the Lord's return. Christians who uttered this phrase believed that Jesus' second coming was imminent and eagerly anticipated his return to establish his kingdom.
  2. Salvation and Judgment: The phrase also implies the hope for salvation and the fear of judgment. For those who believed in Jesus, his return meant deliverance from sin and the promise of eternal life. Conversely, those who rejected him faced the consequences of their unbelief.

Usage

"Maranatha" has been used throughout Christian history as a:

  • Prayer for Christ's return
  • Expression of hope and anticipation
  • Reminder of the urgency of Christian living
  • Challenge to prepare for the day of judgment

Example

In the First Epistle to the Corinthians, Paul exhorts the believers, saying:

"Let him who does wrong still do wrong; and let him who is filthy still be filthy; but let him who is righteous still do right, and let him who is holy still be holy. Behold, I am coming quickly, and my reward is with me, to give to every man according to his work." (Revelation 22:11-12)

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