Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides valuable insights into the original meanings and contexts of scriptural passages. The Greek word ἑτοίμως (hetoimōs) is particularly significant as it translates to “readily” or “willingly,” emphasizing the importance of eagerness and preparedness in action. This word is relevant to New Testament interpretation, reflecting an attitude of readiness in the early Christian community. It also reveals the cultural significance of being prepared and willing in ancient Greek society.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἑτοίμως (hetoimōs) [heh-TOY-mohs]
- Etymology: Derived from the root word ἕτοιμος (hetoimos), meaning “ready” or “prepared.”
- Part of Speech: Adverb; does not have declensions as it modifies verbs and conveys how actions are performed.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Readily: Describes an action done with ease or without hesitation.
- Willingly: Indicates a willing or eager attitude towards an action or task.
- Eagerly: Suggests a high level of enthusiasm or keenness in performing an action.
Similar Words: ἑτοιμάζω (hetoimazō) [heh-toy-MAH-zo], which means “to prepare” or “to make ready.” While ἑτοίμως (hetoimōs) describes the manner of being ready or willing, ἑτοιμάζω focuses on the action of preparation itself.
Further Insights: ἑτοίμως is an adverb that does not decline, unlike adjectives or nouns. It modifies verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed. The word is often used to emphasize the readiness, willingness, or eagerness with which an action is undertaken in both classical and Biblical Greek.
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Defines ἑτοίμως as “readily, willingly,” emphasizing an attitude of readiness or eagerness to act. It often carries a positive connotation, indicating a willing spirit or a lack of reluctance.
Thayer’s: Notes that ἑτοίμως means “readily, willingly, with promptness,” particularly in contexts where an immediate or enthusiastic response is required, as in the call to serve or act in faith.
Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on the word’s use to denote an action that is performed willingly and promptly, highlighting its relevance in New Testament teachings on readiness and willingness in serving God.
LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Indicates that ἑτοίμως is used in classical Greek to describe actions done with ease or eagerness, often in military, rhetorical, or philosophical contexts to emphasize preparedness and willingness.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἑτοίμως as “readily” or “willingly,” providing insights into its application in the New Testament to encourage a spirit of readiness and willingness among believers.
Related Scripture References
- 2 Corinthians 8:11: “So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness (ἑτοίμως) in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have.”
- 1 Peter 5:2: “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly (ἑτοίμως), as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Apology | “He would rather face death readily (ἑτοίμως) than betray his principles.” |
| Xenophon | Memorabilia | “The soldiers were trained to act willingly (ἑτοίμως) and without hesitation, always prepared for the command.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “Virtue is a state of character concerned with choice, lying in a mean, with readiness (ἑτοίμως) to act according to reason.” |
Septuagint Examples:
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Proverbs | Proverbs 3:27 (LXX) | “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act readily (ἑτοίμως).” |
| Isaiah | Isaiah 58:6 (LXX) | “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Then you shall act readily (ἑτοίμως).” |
| Sirach | Sirach 32:19 (LXX) | “Do nothing without counsel, and when you have acted, do not regret it; act readily (ἑτοίμως) and without hesitation.” |
Summary of ἑτοίμως (G2093)
ἑτοίμως (hetoimōs) is an adverb meaning “readily” or “willingly,” conveying a sense of eagerness and readiness to act. It is frequently used in the New Testament to encourage a spirit of promptness and willingness in believers, particularly in contexts related to serving God and the community. The word carries significant weight in both classical Greek literature and Biblical texts, where it underscores the value of being prepared and eager to take action. Understanding ἑτοίμως helps illuminate key teachings about the attitude of readiness in the Christian faith and its application in daily life.
Did You Know?
Did you know that ἑτοίμως (hetoimōs) was often used in ancient Greek philosophy and military texts to describe not just physical readiness but also a mental state of preparedness and willingness? This term captures the essence of readiness as a virtue, bridging the gap between classical and Biblical concepts of preparedness.
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