Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Maranatha" is an Aramaic expression that appears in the New Testament, specifically in 1 Corinthians 16:22. It is a compound word derived from "maran" (our Lord) and "atha" (come or has come). The phrase can be translated as "Our Lord, come" or "Our Lord has come." The exact meaning can vary slightly depending on the context and interpretation, but it is generally understood as a prayer or declaration concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. Biblical References: The primary biblical reference to "Maranatha" is found in 1 Corinthians 16:22, where the Apostle Paul writes, "If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be under a curse. Maranatha!" . This usage suggests an eschatological hope and expectation for the return of Jesus Christ. The invocation of "Maranatha" serves as both a warning and a reminder of the imminent return of the Lord, emphasizing the importance of loving and following Christ. Theological Significance: "Maranatha" holds significant theological weight as it encapsulates the early Christian anticipation of Christ's second coming. It reflects the urgency and hope that characterized the early Church's eschatological outlook. The term serves as a reminder of the transient nature of the present world and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through the return of Jesus. In the context of 1 Corinthians 16:22, "Maranatha" is used as a solemn declaration that underscores the seriousness of loving the Lord. The phrase implies that those who do not love Christ are subject to divine judgment, highlighting the necessity of a genuine relationship with Him. Liturgical and Devotional Use: Throughout Christian history, "Maranatha" has been used in liturgical settings and personal devotions as a prayerful expression of longing for Christ's return. It is often invoked in Advent, the season leading up to Christmas, as believers reflect on both the first coming of Christ and anticipate His second coming. The use of "Maranatha" in prayer and worship serves to align the hearts of believers with the hope and expectation of Christ's return, fostering a spirit of readiness and watchfulness. It is a call to live in a manner that reflects the imminent return of the Lord, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in faith and love. Cultural and Historical Context: In the early Christian community, the use of Aramaic expressions like "Maranatha" indicates the Jewish roots of the faith and the linguistic diversity of the early Church. Aramaic was a common language in the region during the time of Jesus and the apostles, and its use in the New Testament reflects the cultural and historical context of the early Christian movement. The expression "Maranatha" also serves as a testament to the unity and shared hope of the early believers, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. It is a powerful reminder of the centrality of Christ's return in Christian doctrine and the shared anticipation that unites believers across time and space. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary MaranathaSmith's Bible Dictionary Maranathaan Aramaic or Syriac expression used by St. Paul at the conclusion of his first Epistle to the Corinthians, ch. (1 Corinthians 16:22) signifying "our Lord cometh." ATS Bible Dictionary MaranathaComposed of two Syriac words, signifying "the Lord cometh." See ANATHEMA. Easton's Bible Dictionary (1 Corinthians 16:22) consists of two Aramean words, Maran'athah, meaning, "our Lord comes," or is "coming." If the latter interpretation is adopted, the meaning of the phrase is, "Our Lord is coming, and he will judge those who have set him at nought." (Comp. Philippians 4:5; James 5:8, 9.) Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Our Lord cometh; -- an expression used by St. Paul at the conclusion of his first Epistle to the Corinthians (xvi. 22). This word has been used in anathematizing persons for great crimes; as much as to say, May the Lord come quickly to take vengeance of thy crimes. See Anathema.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MARANATHAmar-a-nath'-a, mar-an-a'-tha (from Aramaic words, marana' 'athah, "Our Lord cometh, or will come"; according to some, "has come"; to others, "Come!" an invitation for his speedy reappearance (compare Revelation 22:20); maranatha, or maran atha): Used in connection with anathema, "accursed" (1 Corinthians 16:22), but has no necessary connection therewith. It was used by early Christians to add solemn emphasis to previous statement, injunction or adjuration, and seems to have become a sort of watchword; possibly forming part of an early liturgy. Greek 3134. marana tha -- (our) Lord, come! ... Word Origin transliterated Aramaic phrase Definition (our) Lord, come! NASB Word Usage Maranatha (1). Maranatha. Of Chaldee origin ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3134.htm - 6k Library The Song of the Redeemed The Same Subject Continued. Of the Persons by Whom, and the Uses for Which, Ecclesiastical ... None of Your Party, O Manes, Will You Make a Galatian... The Communion of Goods. The Work of the Holy Spirit The Impossibility of Failure. Watching for the King Of Love to God Subject Index. Thesaurus Maranatha (1 Occurrence)... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MARANATHA. ...Maranatha (1 Occurrence). 1 Corinthians 16:22 If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha. ... /m/maranatha.htm - 8k Maran (1 Occurrence) Anathema (6 Occurrences) Loveth (88 Occurrences) Maran-atha (1 Occurrence) Atha (1 Occurrence) Premillennial Millennium View (86 Occurrences) Resources What does “maranatha” mean? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the definition of anathema? | GotQuestions.org Miscellaneous Bible Questions (All) | GotQuestions.org Maranatha: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Maranatha (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 16:22 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |