Who or what is Maranatha in the Bible?

Ancient Context: Maranatha

⚡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)

Maranatha is an Aramaic expression utilized in early Christian liturgy and epistolary literature to invoke the imminent return of Jesus Christ, appearing notably in 1 Corinthians 16:22 and Revelation 22:20.

What is the meaning of Maranatha in the Bible?

Maranatha is an Aramaic expression utilized in early Christian liturgy and epistolary literature to invoke the imminent return of Jesus Christ, appearing notably in 1 Corinthians 16:22 and Revelation 22:20.

TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE

Recognizing this Aramaic term helps readers understand the linguistic diversity of the early church and the specific eschatological hope expressed in the closing verses of the New Testament.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Maranatha functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.

Bible Study Reflection Prompts:

Why did the biblical author mention Maranatha in this passage?
What cultural or historical assumption does Maranatha clarify?

Scripture Passages Mentioned: 1 Corinthians 16:22Revelation 22:20

Source Attribution & Provenance

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.

How to Cite This Entry

          "Maranatha." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/maranatha/
        

Maranatha