Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for ἐξαίφνης, similar concepts of suddenness or unexpectedness can be found in Hebrew words such as פִּתְאֹם (pit'om, Strong's Hebrew 6597), which also means "suddenly" or "unexpectedly." This Hebrew term is used in the Old Testament to describe events that occur without warning, similar to the usage of ἐξαίφνης in the New Testament.

Usage: This term is used in the New Testament to describe events or actions that happen abruptly or without prior indication, emphasizing the element of surprise or immediacy.

Context: The Greek adverb ἐξαίφνης appears in the New Testament to convey the suddenness of an event or action. It is used to describe moments that occur without forewarning, often highlighting the divine or miraculous nature of the event. For instance, in Acts 9:3, the term is used to describe the sudden appearance of a light from heaven during Saul's conversion: "As Saul drew near to Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him." This usage underscores the unexpected and transformative nature of divine intervention.

Another notable occurrence is in Mark 13:36, where Jesus warns about the suddenness of His return: "Otherwise, He may arrive without notice and find you sleeping." Here, ἐξαίφνης serves as a reminder of the need for constant vigilance and readiness for the Lord's coming, as it will happen without prior announcement.

The term is also found in Acts 22:6, reiterating the sudden and dramatic nature of Saul's encounter with the divine: "About noon as I was approaching Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven flashed around me." This repetition in the narrative of Saul's conversion emphasizes the immediacy and unexpectedness of God's intervention in human affairs.

In each instance, ἐξαίφνης is used to draw attention to the abruptness and often the divine orchestration of events, encouraging believers to remain alert and prepared for God's actions in the world.