no one knows the day or the hour

The phrase "no one knows the day or the hour" most famously appears in Matthew 24:36, where Jesus states that regarding the timing of His return and the end of the age, only God the Father knows the exact time—not even the angels or Jesus Himself. This highlights the certainty of the event but emphasizes the mystery and unpredictability of its timing. It serves as a call for vigilance and readiness, as the specific moment is hidden and will come unexpectedly like a thief in the night. Some interpret this phrase as a Hebrew idiom used to convey that the timing will be revealed at the appropriate time, while others see it as underscoring the divine authority of God the Father alone to know the exact moment. The statement encourages believers to remain watchful and prepared rather than trying to predict the timing of the event.