Does the Old Testament Conceptualize a Beginning and an End of Time? An Exploration of Time in the Bible

Abstract

The present article undertakes an examination of the concept of time in the Old Testament, specifically in relation to the question of whether the text presupposes the beginning and end of time. The investigation proceeds in several stages, the first of which involves a close analysis of the term bᵊrēʾšît as it appears in Genesis 1:1. After carefully examining diverse interpretations of the term, including the conventional perspective that defines rēʾšît as an absolute state noun and Genesis 1:1 as an independent clause, the writer arrives at the conclusion that it cannot be conclusively established that Genesis 1:1 denotes the absolute inception of time. The investigation then turns to the examination of three phrases that are commonly associated with the end of time: ʿeṭ-qēṣ, ʾaḥǎrîṭ hayyāmîm, and yôm yhwh. The writer considers these expressions carefully in order to de-termine whether they presuppose the end of time. Additionally, the writer examines the word ʿôlām in order to assess whether it connotes endless time or atemporality. It is argued that the biblical authors’ interest in the end of time does not imply the concept of absolute disappearance of time, but rather expresses the hope for the opening of a new era. Furthermore, the word ʿôlām is found to indicate permanance rather than endlessness or atemporality. It is important to note that the descriptions of time in the Old Testament are conveyed through symbolic and metaphorical language, rather than through theoretical, physical, or mathematical analysis. Consequently, attempts to impose a single, specific view of time onto the Old Testament's descriptions should be avoided, especially when engaged with scientific, philosophical, or other cultural perspectives on time.