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What is the 11th hour miracle?

Published in Idioms and Phrases 2 mins read

The "11th hour miracle" is a common idiom referring to a sudden and unexpected event that occurs when all hope seems lost, often saving a situation from disaster. It implies a last-minute intervention that dramatically changes the course of events, often with a positive outcome.

This phrase is often used in the context of:

  • Personal challenges: A student might pull off an "11th hour miracle" by passing a difficult exam after weeks of struggling.
  • Business endeavors: A company might achieve an "11th hour miracle" by securing a crucial investment deal just before facing bankruptcy.
  • Sporting events: A team might score a winning goal in the final seconds of a game, creating an "11th hour miracle" for their fans.
  • Historical events: Many historical events are described as "11th hour miracles," such as the signing of the armistice that ended World War I just before the Allied powers were on the verge of collapse.

The phrase's origin likely stems from the biblical story of the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16), where workers hired at the 11th hour (the very end of the workday) received the same pay as those who worked all day. This story highlights the concept of divine grace and unexpected blessings, even when it seems too late.

The "11th hour miracle" is a powerful metaphor that reminds us that even in the most desperate situations, hope can persist and unexpected solutions can emerge.

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