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Twinkling of an eye

1 Corinthians 15:52
In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible.
Read in Context

Modern Meaning

What Does “Twinkling of an eye” Mean?

An extremely short period of time.

Biblical Origin

Where Does This Phrase Come From?

Paul described the resurrection as happening instantaneously — in the time it takes for light to flash across an eye. The KJV's phrase "twinkling of an eye" became the English standard for describing something that happens almost too fast to perceive.

The phrase appears in 1 Corinthians 15:52 in the King James Version of the Bible, first published in 1611.

Usage Today

How Is It Used Today?

Describes extreme speed. "The stock price dropped in the twinkling of an eye."

The KJV Verse

1 Corinthians 15:52

In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible.

Read 1 Corinthians 15:52 with commentary →

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