διηνεκής
diēnekḗs
G1336 substantive adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
denoting continuous or unbroken duration; lasting without interruption, continuing through time. In various contexts, refers to something that endures perpetually, is uninterrupted, or extends throughout a given span, especially with reference to time or process.
Semantic Range
continual, uninterrupted, perpetual, enduring, ongoing, without interruption, lasting throughout, unceasing
Root / Etymology
From διά (through, across) and a derivative of an alternate form of φέρω (to bear, to carry); literally, 'carried through' or 'brought all the way through.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
διηνεκής occurs infrequently in Greek literature, but when used, it emphasizes uninterrupted continuance. In the Septuagint, it often translates Hebrew terms signifying perpetual or ongoing duration, especially in ritual or priestly contexts (e.g., 'continual burnt-offering'). In the New Testament, it appears in Hebrews to describe a priesthood or intercession that is ongoing and uninterrupted. The term is not limited to abstract time but can apply to actions, states, or objects that are unceasing. Standard English translations often render it as 'continual,' 'perpetual,' or 'forever,' but these can obscure the nuance of an action or function persisting without break, rather than simply lasting a long time. In classical Greek, the word is rare; its usage is primarily found in Hellenistic-Jewish literature, especially in contexts that translate or adapt Hebrew concepts of ritual continuity (such as continual offerings).
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
neuter of a compound of διά and a derivative of an alternate of φέρω; carried through, i.e. (adverbially with εἰς and ὁ prefixed) perpetually:--+ continually, for ever.
Root Family
διηνεκής (diēnekēs) — continuous, unbroken, enduring, perpetual, carried through
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1336-01 |
διηνεκές | dienekes | ADJ.S ACC N SG |
continually | unbroken continuance | unbroken continuance | 4 |
Occurrences in Scripture
4 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1336-01 |
Hebrews 7:3 | διηνεκές | dienekes | ADJ.S ACC N SG |
continually | unbroken continuance | unbroken continuance |
G1336-01 |
Hebrews 10:1 | διηνεκὲς | dienekes | ADJ.S ACC N SG |
continually | unbroken continuance | continually |
G1336-01 |
Hebrews 10:12 | διηνεκὲς | dienekes | ADJ.S ACC N SG |
continually | unbroken continuance | the unbroken continuance |
G1336-01 |
Hebrews 10:14 | διηνεκὲς | dienekes | ADJ.S ACC N SG |
all time | unbroken continuance | unbroken continuance |