In the paper I will seek to identify and consider some distinct qualities of the state’s temporal dimension. The main focus will be on the state being a temporally infinite object. I will investigate in particular how, if at all, permanence is intended or effected by the persons whose actions collectively constitute or maintain the state, and how this quality can indeed be given a place in a general theory on the nature of the state. I will also consider cases where states are plainly not temporally infinite, especially those which are expressly and deliberately not so. My reflection upon these cases will seek to show how far the lack of an intention to persist should count as a defect to a political entity’s statehood.