What does "by and by" mean in the Bible? Definition and Historical Roots “By and by” is an older English phrase commonly found in early English Bible translations such as the King James Version (KJV). Although modern translations, including the Berean Standard Bible, often replace “by and by” with words like “immediately,” “quickly,” or “at once,” the underlying Greek words typically carry the sense of something happening swiftly or soon thereafter. The phrase “by and by” was recognizable to English speakers at the time of the KJV’s publication (1611) and carried nuances of urgency or short elapse of time. Older English usage of “by and by” can mean “without delay” or “shortly.” Over time, this phrase became less common in everyday language. As English evolved, so did Bible translations, replacing archaic expressions with clearer terms that preserve the original Greek or Hebrew senses. Occurrences in Scripture Even though the exact wording “by and by” does not appear in the Berean Standard Bible, there are several verses in the KJV where “by and by” is used. Below are common examples alongside how the renders them: 1. Matthew 13:21 – • KJV: “…for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.” •: “…When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away.” Here, the Greek term ὀλίγος (oligos, meaning “short” or “little”) in combination with external context indicates a swift response—thus “by and by” in older English becomes “quickly” in the. 2. Mark 6:25 – • KJV: “And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist.” •: “At once she hurried back to the king with her request: ‘I want you to give me the head of John the Baptist on a platter at once.’” The Greek ἐξαυτῆς (exautēs, meaning “immediately” or “forthwith”) shows a direct urgency. The KJV’s “by and by” is understood in modern terms as “at once.” 3. Luke 17:7 – • KJV: “But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?” •: “Which of you whose servant comes in from plowing or shepherding in the field will say to him, ‘Come at once and sit down to eat’?” Again, the overall sense in Greek is that it happens “immediately,” demonstrating how “by and by” indicates no delay in action. Comparison Across Translations The phrase “by and by” appears more frequently in older translations such as the Bishop’s Bible (1568) and the Geneva Bible (1560), eventually carried over to the KJV (1611). Modern translations—including the Berean Standard Bible, NIV, ESV, and NASB—more directly translate the underlying Greek terms as “immediately,” “soon,” “quickly,” or “at once.” These differences in wording reflect the translators’ attempts to maintain accuracy while using language meaningful to readers of each era. Multiple early manuscript families—such as the Alexandrian and Byzantine text types—support the Greek vocabulary that points to rapid or urgent action. When consulting these manuscripts, the weight of linguistic evidence aligns with the meaning of speed or directness rather than a prolonged time frame. Significance in Biblical Interpretation 1. Emphasis on Urgency: Passages where “by and by” is employed often emphasize the promptness of a reaction. For instance, in Matthew 13:21, the promptness with which a person “falls away” underscores the fragility of a shallow spiritual commitment. 2. Highlighting Immediate Obedience or Judgment: In verses like Mark 6:25, the quick carrying out of a directive emphasizes the immediacy of both decisions and consequences. It shows that actions in Scripture can unfold with surprising swiftness. 3. Relevance to Application: When the biblical text underscores immediacy, it can encourage a personal response—reminding readers of the importance of prompt obedience to God’s guidance and a readiness to respond to spiritual matters without delay. Practical Lessons and Reflection • Prompt Obedience: The sense of “by and by” as “immediately” or “at once” can inspire a timely response to moral or spiritual truth. Delayed obedience often results in missed opportunities or weakened resolve (cf. James 1:22–24). • Urgent Response to the Gospel: “By and by” can also be a reminder that matters of faith can be pressing. In a broader sense, Scripture repeatedly calls for immediate repentance and trust in God’s plan of salvation (cf. Acts 17:30–31). • Applying Timely Action to Daily Life: Recognizing that God works in real time cultivates a mindset that looks for opportunities to serve, worship, and share truth at the earliest moment, trusting the One who orchestrates events according to His purposes. Conclusion “By and by,” as found in older English Bible versions, highlights immediacy or quickness in events or responses. Modern translations clarify this meaning for contemporary readers, rendering it as “immediately,” “soon,” “at once,” or “quickly.” Studies of the earliest Greek manuscripts confirm that such a sense of urgency aligns with the original text. Besides uncovering a quaint piece of biblical vocabulary, exploring “by and by” underscores how Scripture conveys urgency in spiritual matters—whether it involves responding to Jesus’s call, heeding warnings, or obeying divine commands. In every passage where this phrase (in older English) occurs, its sense of immediate action is a frequent theme that carries enduring relevance for individuals seeking to walk faithfully and respond promptly to truth. |
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