[Greek] ἄτομος (atomos), [Latin] momento: uncut, indivisible, a moment in time, what happens in an instant, that cannot be cut into two, infinitely small, an extremely short period of time; 1Cor. 15:52
Background Information:
Greek Hellenism: Greek philosophers posited (speculated) the existence of invisible (and indivisible) pieces of matter. The philosopher Democritus named these invisible particles as atomos. He argued that atoms must be so small that they are invisible and indestructible. These solid and uniform atoms can move through empty space until stopped by solid matter. He thought of the idea of atoms like the aroma of freshly baked bread. Interestingly, scientists, throughout the later centuries, have posited that all reality can be perceived through the senses.
Old Testament: This term is related to the Hebrew nega, which can have a two-fold meaning. Nega can mean to be at rest or to set in motion. Isa.51:4-5 refers the Lord’s teaching and judgment, coming as a light to the people, will rest (come forth quickly). This most likely refers to a moment rather than rest. Essentially, a moment is a very small (brief) snapshot in the movement of time. This Hebrew word refers to the twinkling of an eye. This term also illustrates something extremely small.
New Testament: This term pertains to what happens in an instant, a flash of time so brief it could not be easily measured. In an era before modern time measurement, it was impossible to define this period of time.1 Corinthians mentions that the coming of Christ is to be very sudden and without notice. God will raise the dead so fast that time will stop. This will occur in the blink of an eye.
Scripture:
“In an instant, in the blink of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” 1Cor. 15:42
This event will happen instantly. This moment of time will not be measure or determined.
Conclusion:
Atomic, atom, moment
Now is not the time nor place to have a discussion on the rapture. This can become an epic theological philosophical discussion.
It is such a great credit to the ancient Greek minds to even consider the idea of atoms (small particles). This is a credit to their intellectual foresight and genius.
It is interesting to discover the profound two fold meaning of the Hebrew term naga. This term speaks of time in infinitely small terms. At first glance, I would not expect this term would come from a simpler Old Testament (Hebrew) culture. However, this becomes very plausible when dealing with an eternal God. This Hebrew definition unknowingly provides a greater insight about the atom. Again, the New Testament culture continues to ponder an eternal an omnipotent God’s capabilities.
In modern Israeli culture, rega refers to a silent hand gesture meaning “wait a minute”. It has been found that a person can blink his eye five times in a single moment. This happen so quickly, that the brain often cannot perceive. So this happens in a blink on an eye!