νῦν (nun)
nun
now
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 142 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek adverb nun points directly to the present moment, marking a sharp contrast with what has passed or what is yet to come. In the New Testament, it appears frequently in John and Acts to anchor events in their immediate context. For instance, Jesus uses it to distinguish his current suffering from future glory in John 12:27, while Paul employs it to highlight a shift in spiritual status in Romans 6:19.
Beyond simple timekeeping, nun often signals a logical transition or emphasis, functioning like "therefore" or "as it is." This dual role allows writers to pivot from narrative description to theological explanation. The sources note that when combined with articles, such as in Luke 1:48, it can denote the present age itself, carrying weight beyond a mere temporal marker.
Its usage reflects a worldview where the present is pivotal. Whether describing the immediate past in John 11:21 or declaring a new reality in Acts 7:34, the word underscores the significance of the current moment. Translators typically render it as "now," preserving its function as a bridge between history and immediate experience.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word nun anchors us in the present moment. It is not merely a marker of time but a declaration that God’s action is happening here and now. In John 4:23, Jesus says the hour now is, inviting you to worship with your whole heart in this very breath, rather than waiting for a future condition to be perfect.
This word often signals a shift from what was to what is becoming true through Christ. When Paul speaks of our new status in Romans, he uses this sense of immediacy to remind us that the old ways have passed away. The present moment holds weight because it is where faith meets reality. You do not need to chase a distant ideal; God’s grace is available in your current circumstances.
Even in moments of suffering or confusion, nun reminds us that God sees you today. It bridges the history of salvation with your daily life. This awareness brings peace, knowing that the promises of Scripture are not just ancient records but living truths for your present journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 142 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- now93×
- Now22×
- present11×
- now,7×
- now on3×
- now;2×
- then1×
- since1×
- presently1×
- now.1×
- now —1×
- now [the time]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- νῦν134×
- νῦν,7×
- νῦν·3×
- Νῦν3×
- νῦν.1×
- νὺν1×
Key Verses
-
John 4:23
But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such to be his worshipers.
Jesus uses this word to declare that true worship is not a future hope but a present reality accessible through spirit and truth.
-
Luke 1:48
for he has looked at the humble state of his servant. For behold, from now on, all generations will call me blessed.
Mary recognizes that God’s favor toward her humble state has immediate, lasting implications for all future generations.
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John 5:25
Most certainly I tell you, the hour comes, and now is, when the dead will hear the Son of God’s voice; and those who hear will live.
This occurrence emphasizes the urgency of spiritual life, stating that the power to hear and live is active in the current moment.
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Luke 6:21
Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.
Jesus contrasts present hunger with future fulfillment, anchoring the beatitude in the immediate experience of his listeners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does nun mean in the New Testament?
How is nun different from other words for time?
Where does this word appear most frequently?
Every Occurrence (142 verses across 24 books)
Matthew 5 verses
Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it…
Matthew 24:21for then there will be great suffering, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, nor ever…
Matthew 26:65Then the high priest tore his clothing, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Behold,…
Matthew 27:42“He saved others, but he can’t save himself. If he is the King of Israel, let him come down from the cross now, and we…
Matthew 27:43He trusts in God. Let God deliver him now, if he wants him; for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’”