Eternal
In the Bible, the term "eternal" primarily refers to the concept of existence beyond the temporal boundaries of time, often associated with God, His nature, and the life He offers to humanity. The Hebrew word "olam" (עולם) and the Greek term "aionios" (αἰώνιος) are frequently used to convey this meaning. "Olam" signifies an age or an indefinite period, often implying a sense of permanence or perpetuity, while "aionios" relates to an age or era but is used more specifically in the New Testament to denote eternal life, especially in the context of salvation (John 3:16; Romans 6:23).Eternal life, as described in passages like John 17:3, is not just endless existence but a quality of life characterized by a profound relationship with God. This is further illustrated in the promise of eternal life to believers, which denotes not only a future hope but also a present reality of living in communion with Christ (1 John 5:11-13). In contrast, the concept of eternal punishment is also present in Scripture, indicating a definitive separation from God for those who reject His salvation (Matthew 25:46). Therefore, "eternal" in the biblical context encapsulates both the unending nature of God's existence and the life He offers to humanity, contrasting the eternal joy of communion with Him against the backdrop of eternal separation from Him.