Eternity (Oulomos) in the Bible and Ancient Near East
1. Eternity in the Ancient Near East
Phoenician and Emar texts
The god Oulomos (Greek rendering of ʿôlām) appears in a Phoenician cosmology attributed to Mochos of Sidon.
Texts from Emar (14th–13th century BCE) mention a god Ḫalma, linked to the same root as ʿôlām, and associated with permanence or eternity.
These figures were sometimes compared with other cosmic deities such as Aion in Greek tradition.
Mythological influence
In Damascius’ account, Oulomos was “the god perceived by the intellect,” who generated creation through self-interaction and gave rise to the cosmic egg.
While this version bears marks of later Greek and Egyptian influence, the name’s Semitic background suggests ʿôlām was an early divine concept.
Eternity as a personified force
Unlike terms for storm, sun, or fertility gods, ʿôlām emphasized the enduring, unchanging nature of divine power.
This may explain its resonance in West Semitic cults where permanence and order were highly valued.
2. Eternity in the Hebrew Bible
While the word ʿôlām does not usually carry mythological associations in the Bible, it remains central to Israel’s understanding of God.
Time and duration
Often translated as “forever” or “everlasting,” ʿôlām can describe the enduring reign of God (Psalm 10:16), His covenant promises (Genesis 17:7), or His steadfast love (Psalm 103:17).
It can also apply to institutions like the priesthood (Exodus 29:9) or ordinances like the Sabbath (Exodus 31:16).
El-Olam (God Everlasting)
In Genesis 21:33, Abraham calls upon Yahweh as El-Olam after planting a tamarisk tree at Beersheba.
Some scholars suggest this may reflect the adaptation of a pre-Israelite deity of eternity into Israel’s worship, though in the text the name clearly functions as an epithet of Yahweh.
Theological focus
Scripture avoids turning “eternity” into a god. Instead, it consistently presents Yahweh as the eternal one whose nature and promises endure without end.
3. Eternity and the Gospel
For Christians, the biblical concept of eternity finds its fulfillment in Christ:
Christ as eternal
John 1:1 speaks of the Word who was “in the beginning with God.”
Revelation 1:8 portrays Jesus as “the Alpha and the Omega … who is and who was and who is to come.”
Eternal life
The New Testament shifts from eternity as God’s attribute to eternity as God’s gift. Believers are promised zōē aiōnios (eternal life) through faith in Jesus (John 3:16).
Eternal life is not merely unending time but communion with the eternal God.
Continuity with Israel’s hope
God’s eternal covenant with Abraham (Genesis 17:7) and His eternal throne for David’s line (2 Samuel 7:16) both find their completion in Christ’s everlasting kingdom.
4. Eternity and the Last Days
The theme of eternity also shapes biblical eschatology:
Judgment and permanence
Eternal life and eternal punishment are contrasted in Matthew 25:46, underscoring the finality of God’s judgment.
A new creation without end
Isaiah 65:17–18 and Revelation 21 describe a renewed heaven and earth where God’s people dwell forever in His presence.
Victory over death
Eternity guarantees that death is not the final word. Paul declares, “Death is swallowed up in victory” (1 Corinthians 15:54).
Thus, eternity is not abstract but deeply personal: it is the assurance that God’s kingdom, promises, and presence will never end.
5. Lessons for Today
God’s reliability: Because God is eternal, His promises are unshakable. Believers can trust His word across generations.
Perspective on time: Eternity reminds Christians that earthly trials are temporary compared to the everlasting joy of God’s kingdom.
Mission urgency: Knowing that eternal destinies are at stake, the church is called to proclaim the gospel with faithfulness and compassion.
Hope in suffering: Just as the early church endured persecution with hope in God’s eternal reign, so too believers today can face hardship with confidence in His everlasting care.
Conclusion
The biblical idea of eternity, rooted in the Hebrew ʿôlām, moves from ancient mythological associations into Israel’s theology of Yahweh as the everlasting God. Far from being an abstract concept, eternity grounds the believer’s confidence in God’s enduring promises and the everlasting kingdom of Christ. For Christians, eternity is both a present reality in communion with God and a future hope awaiting consummation in the new creation.
Bible Verses about Eternity
“Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” (Psalm 90:2)
“The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” (Deuteronomy 33:27)
“But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him.” (Psalm 103:17)
“Your throne is established from of old; you are from everlasting.” (Psalm 93:2)
“The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.” (Isaiah 40:28)
“For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit.’” (Isaiah 57:15)
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” (John 17:3)
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)
“And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night.” (Revelation 14:11)
