Brief Overview of Βραδύς (G1021: Bradys)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek adjective βραδύς (Bradys) is pronounced bra-doos. The word is used to describe something or someone that is “slow” or “delayed” in action, movement, or response. The primary meaning of Bradys is “slow,” whether that be in the literal sense of being physically slow-moving or in a metaphorical sense, such as being slow to understand or respond. The word carries connotations of slowness in various contexts, including both physical speed and mental or emotional response times.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
In Greek lexicons such as BDAG (Bauer, Danker, Arndt, and Gingrich), Bradys is defined as “slow” or “dull.” It appears in the New Testament with these meanings. One notable usage is in James 1:19, which advises believers to be “quick to listen, slow (Bradys) to speak and slow (Bradys) to become angry.” Here, the word emphasizes the importance of patience and self-control, suggesting a measured, thoughtful approach to communication and emotion.

Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon similarly describes Bradys as “slow,” particularly in terms of tardiness or delay. It is often used to describe a reluctance or hesitance, whether in action or reaction. The word’s usage in the New Testament underscores the value placed on restraint and careful deliberation, especially in the context of human relationships and interactions.

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Classical Greek Usage:
In classical Greek literature, Bradys is used to describe both physical and metaphorical slowness. For example, in Homer’s “Iliad,” the term is employed to describe the slow movement of warriors or the gradual unfolding of events during battle, highlighting the deliberative or restrained nature of certain actions.

In the works of Aristotle, Bradys is used in a more metaphorical sense, often in the context of intellectual or emotional slowness. Aristotle might describe a person as Bradys in understanding or Bradys in judgment, indicating a sluggish or slow-moving thought process.

Another example comes from the plays of Sophocles, where Bradys can describe characters who are slow to act or slow to realize the implications of their actions. This use of the word often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of urgency or awareness that could lead to unfortunate outcomes.

Summary:
The Greek word βραδύς (Bradys) means “slow” and is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. It appears in the New Testament to emphasize the importance of patience and restraint, particularly in James 1:19, where believers are encouraged to be slow to speak and slow to anger. Lexicons like BDAG and Thayer’s underscore its meaning as “slow,” whether in action, reaction, or understanding. In classical Greek literature, Bradys is used in similar ways, describing both physical slowness and metaphorical slowness, such as in understanding or judgment. This term captures a broad range of meanings related to delay or tardiness, whether in movement, thought, or emotion, and serves as a reminder of the value of measured, deliberate actions and responses in various aspects of life.