The Origin and Usage of the Phrase 'At the Eleventh Hour'

The phrase 'at the eleventh hour' is a common idiom used to describe a last-minute effort or action taken just before a deadline. This phrase has roots in both modern English and biblical literature, providing a rich historical context to its meaning.

Modern Usage and Meaning

Over time, the phrase has come to signify a last-minute effort or action taken just before a deadline or the end of a situation. It conveys a sense of urgency and the idea of doing something at the last possible moment. For example:

The shipment arrived at the eleventh hour… just when we were thinking of having to cancel the concert. He always submits his reports at the eleventh hour, although he's technically on time, it's a nuisance because no-one has time to read them ahead of the weekly meetings. We're at the eleventh hour on this one; unless something happens soon, it looks as if it'll be too late.

The phrase is often used to imply that a critical task or decision is being made under extreme time pressure, highlighting the stress and urgency involved.

Biblical Origin

The phrase 'at the eleventh hour' has its roots in biblical literature, specifically in the Bible verse Matthew 20:9, which reads: 'Matthew 20:9 And when they came that were hired about the ELEVENTH HOUR they received every man a denarius.'

This verse provides the context for understanding the phrase. In the biblical story, workers who came to work at the eleventh hour, just before the workday ended, received the same pay as those who had worked from the beginning. This story emphasizes fairness and the idea that those who come last can still receive their reward, similar to the idiom used today to describe last-minute contributions.

The moral lesson of the story is that the first and the last are not inherently different in God's eyes. Those who arrive late to serve can be equally valued, just like actions taken at the last possible moment can still have significant impact.

The Eleventh Hour in Literature and Culture

The phrase has appeared in various forms of literature and cultural references. For instance, in Jonathan Swift's , the term "the eslevnth hour" (misprinted) is used to describe a person of good resolution who would not waver when the occasion demanded it. This further illustrates the cultural significance and adaptability of the phrase in different contexts.

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) traces the first recorded use of the phrase to Matthew 20:1-16, which contains the verse about the eleventh hour. The specific reference comes in Matthew 20:6: "And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?"

The phrase has been celebrated in various cultural works, including literature, poetry, and more recently in modern media. For example, the phrase has been referenced in films, songs, and television shows, reinforcing its cultural significance and making it a recognizable and impactful idiom in English.

Conclusion

The phrase 'at the eleventh hour' is a powerful and versatile idiom that encapsulates a sense of urgency and the impact of taking action at the last possible moment. Its roots in biblical literature offer a rich historical and moral context, while its modern usage in various contexts highlights its adaptability and cultural significance.