Brief Overview of εὔκαιρος (Strong’s G2121: eukairós)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies, as it allows us to uncover deeper meanings behind the text and offers insight into the cultural context of the time. The Greek word εὔκαιρος (eukairós) is particularly significant because it appears in key passages of the New Testament, where it describes moments that are timely or well-suited for a specific purpose. This word provides a glimpse into how the ancient Greeks—and the early Christians—understood concepts of opportunity and favorable timing. Exploring εὔκαιρος enriches our interpretation of Scripture and helps bridge our understanding of ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὔκαιρος (eukairós) [yoo-KAI-ros]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu), meaning “well” or “good,” and καιρός (kairos), meaning “time” or “season.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective; first and second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Timely
• Opportune
• Suitable for a purpose
• Favorable

Similar Words: The word εὔκαιρος is related to the Greek word καιρός (kairos), which means “appointed time” or “season.” While καιρός refers to a specific time or season, εὔκαιρος emphasizes the appropriateness or suitability of that time. Another related word is εὐπρόσδεκτος (euprosdektos), meaning “acceptable” or “well-received,” which focuses more on the favorable reception rather than the timing itself.

Further Insights:
Morphologically, εὔκαιρος is a compound adjective combining εὖ (eu), meaning “well,” with καιρός (kairos), meaning “time” or “season.” The adjective follows the first and second declension patterns in Greek, which means it can be masculine, feminine, or neuter.

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG defines εὔκαιρος as “well-timed” or “opportune.” It emphasizes that the term is used to describe actions or events that occur at a suitable moment, thereby enhancing their effectiveness or acceptability.

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Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon expands on εὔκαιρος by highlighting its use in both classical Greek and New Testament contexts. It denotes a “convenient” or “seasonable” time, particularly emphasizing the suitability for action or decision.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary notes that εὔκαιρος implies readiness and appropriateness in context. It often describes actions that are done at an opportune moment, maximizing their impact.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a more classical perspective, defining εὔκαιρος as “seasonable” or “timely.” It is often used in the sense of an appropriate time for action, reflecting the ancient Greek understanding of well-timed opportunities.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance describes εὔκαιρος as “convenient” or “fitting.” It is used to convey moments that are especially suitable for a particular action or event, aligning with divine or natural timing.

Related Scripture References

• Mark 6:21: “And when a convenient (εὔκαιρος) day was come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee.”
• Acts 24:25: “And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient (εὔκαιρος) season, I will call for thee.”

Classical Usage

Septuagint Usage

Summary of εὔκαιρος (G2121: eukairós)

The Greek word εὔκαιρος (eukairós) is an adjective that describes a timely or well-suited moment. Derived from εὖ (well) and καιρός (time), it emphasizes appropriateness and opportunity. In Biblical and classical literature, εὔκαιρος conveys the concept of favorable timing, making it a valuable word for understanding the cultural and spiritual contexts of ancient texts. Lexicons like BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, LSJ, and Strong’s provide rich insights into the word’s meanings, showing its nuanced usage across different contexts. Its occurrence in the New Testament and classical literature highlights its relevance for both Biblical studies and the understanding of ancient Greek thought.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the concept of “kairos” or “timely opportunity” was so important in Greek culture that it even had its own god? The Greeks worshipped Kairos as the god of the “right moment,” representing the idea that timing can be everything when it comes to success and favor!