1. Term: Maranatha — ܡܪܢܐܬܐ
Pronunciation: ma-ra-NA-tha
Meaning: “Our Lord, come!” — A liturgical invocation expressing hope for the return of Christ.
2. Historical-Cultural Context:
- Widely used in early Syriac Christian worship and prayer as an eschatological plea.
- Reflects the expectation of Jesus’ second coming and the fulfillment of God’s kingdom.
- The phrase combines “Maran” (Our Lord) and “atha” (come).
3. Literary Examples:
- Appears in Syriac liturgies and hymns emphasizing anticipation of the Lord’s return.
- Parallels New Testament usage in 1 Corinthians 16:22.
4. Theological Significance:
- Maranatha encapsulates the hope and urgency of Christian eschatology in Syriac tradition.
- Continues to inspire prayer and worship across Christian denominations.
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