ἅπαξ (hapax)
hapax
once
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 14 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek adverb hapax simply means "once" or "one time." It appears fourteen times in the New Testament, with a notable concentration in the book of Hebrews, as well as in Jude and Philippians. In its most basic sense, it marks a single occurrence, such as Paul noting that he was beaten three times but also mentioning specific instances of singular events (Philippians 4:16; 1 Thessalonians 2:18).
However, the word carries significant theological weight when used to describe actions that are unique and unrepeatable. In Hebrews, it describes Christ’s sacrifice as happening "once for all" (Hebrews 9:26-28), emphasizing that his death was a definitive event requiring no repetition. Similarly, 1 Peter 3:18 states that Christ suffered for sins once for all, highlighting the finality and sufficiency of that act. This usage distinguishes it from simple temporal markers by pointing to an action whose effects endure permanently.
The term often contrasts with repeated rituals or ongoing cycles. For instance, Hebrews 9:7 notes that the high priest entered the Holy Place once a year, while 9:28 clarifies that Christ appeared once for all at the culmination of the ages. This distinction underscores the difference between temporary, repetitive measures and a single, complete solution. The word thus serves to anchor Christian hope in a historical event that stands alone in its efficacy.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hapax marks a moment that never repeats. It appears in passages about Paul’s hardships and Christ’s sacrifice, reminding us that some events are unique and final. When Scripture speaks of Christ suffering once for sins, it anchors our hope in a completed work that needs no addition.
This single occurrence brings peace to anxious hearts. You do not need to repeat rituals or earn what has already been given. The sufficiency of Christ’s act means your standing before God rests on His finished work, not your ongoing performance. This truth invites rest rather than striving.
Even in moments of trial, like Paul’s beatings or shipwrecks, the word highlights specific, singular experiences that shape a life of faith. These unique events do not define your worth but reveal God’s sustaining grace through them. Your journey is held by a Savior who acted once for all.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 14 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- once11×
- once for all1×
- once [more],1×
- once [more]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἅπαξ13×
- ἅπαξ,1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 9:28
so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.
This verse contrasts Christ's single offering with repeated sacrifices, emphasizing the finality and sufficiency of His death for sin.
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I Peter 3:18
Because Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring you to God, being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit,
Here the word underscores that Christ’s suffering was a unique event to bring believers to God, requiring no repetition.
-
Jude 1:3
Beloved, while I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I was constrained to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.
The phrase 'once for all' describes the faith delivered to saints, indicating its complete and unchangeable nature.
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Hebrews 9:27
Inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once, and after this, judgment,
This occurrence highlights the singularity of human death, setting a boundary that points toward eternal judgment.