γῆρας (gēras)
gēras
old age
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun gēras refers simply to old age or the state of being elderly. It appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 1:36, where the angel announces that Elizabeth has conceived a child in her old age. The context highlights the natural progression of life, noting that Mary is also in her sixth month of pregnancy.
This term corresponds to the Hebrew word seivah found in the Septuagint, which often carries connotations of gray hair or the dignity associated with advanced years. By using gēras, the text emphasizes the physical reality of aging rather than just a chronological count. It serves as a factual marker of time passed, underscoring the miraculous nature of new life emerging during a period typically marked by the end of reproductive capability.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word gēras, meaning old age, appears just once in the New Testament. In Luke 1:36, it describes Elizabeth’s stage of life when she miraculously conceives John the Baptist. This single use reminds us that aging is not a sign of God’s absence, but a real part of human experience where His power shines brightest.
When we face our own later years or care for elderly loved ones, this verse offers comfort. It shows that new beginnings are possible regardless of physical limitations. The story invites us to trust in God’s timing, even when circumstances seem impossible.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- old age1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- γήρει1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 1:36
Behold, Elizabeth your relative also has conceived a son in her old age; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren.
This is the only New Testament occurrence, highlighting how God brings life and hope during a time typically marked by infertility.