By And By
TextsWhat is the meaning of By And By in the Bible?
The phrase 'by and by' appears in the King James Version to translate Greek terms such as 'euthus' or 'parachrema', which denote immediate action, whereas its contemporary English meaning suggests a distant future.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this archaic usage prevents misinterpretation of biblical narratives, ensuring readers understand that events described as happening 'by and by' were intended to occur without delay.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how By And By 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 By And By in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does By And By clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"By And By." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/by-and-by/