Bible Dictionary
EARLY
Early usually refers to dawn or the first part of the day, but may also describe the beginning of a season or something done speedily. Scripture frequently presents early morning as a fitting time for prayer.
Definition
Early generally refers to dawn or the time soon after sunrise. It may also mean the beginning of a season or something done quickly or speedily.
Biblical Usage
The Bible uses early for dawn, the early rain, and speediness. Early morning is frequently presented as a time for prayer or seeking God, with examples involving Jesus, Abraham, Jacob, Gideon, Samuel, and David.
Historical Background
The word translates Greek terms associated with dawn and morning. Its seasonal use appears in the expression “early rain,” while another use means quickly.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ur'-li (orthros, and related words; proi):</p><p>The word generally refers to the day, and means the hour of dawn or soon after (Ge 19:2; 2Ch 36:15; Ho 6:4; Lu 24:22). Sometimes it refers to the beginning of the season, eg. the early rain (Ps 84:6; Jas 5:7; <em>see RAIN</em>). It may also have the sense of "speedily" (Ps 46:5). The early morning is frequently commended as the hour for prayer. See examples of Jesus (Mr 1:35; Lu 21:38; Joh 8:2); also Abraham (Ge 19:27), Jacob (Ge 28:18), Gideon (Jud 6:38), Samuel(1Sa 15:12), David (1Sa 17:20).</p><p>G. H. Gerberding</p>