### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bradýnō**, represented by `{{G1019}}`, means **to delay**. It is defined as "to delay:--be slack, tarry." This word appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. It conveys the idea of slowness, either in a personal, logistical sense or in a theological context regarding the timing of divine promises.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1019}}` carries two distinct applications. In [[1 Timothy 3:15]], Paul uses the term in a personal context, writing about what Timothy should do if "I **tarry long**". This potential delay from the apostle underscores the need for proper conduct in the "house of God" `{{G3624}}`, the church `{{G1577}}`. In contrast, [[2 Peter 3:9]] uses `{{G1019}}` twice to address a theological concern: "The Lord is not **slack** concerning his promise." The passage clarifies that what might be perceived by some `{{G5100}}` as divine delay is not a failure to act, but rather an expression of God's character.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of `{{G1019}}` in its key contexts:
* `{{G1022}}` **bradýtēs** (slackness): This noun form is used directly in [[2 Peter 3:9]] to describe the human perception of God's timing, which the verse then corrects. It is defined as "tardiness."
* `{{G3114}}` **makrothyméō** (is longsuffering): This verb explains the true reason for the perceived delay. God is not slack, but instead "is longsuffering to us-ward" [[2 Peter 3:9]], showing His patient nature. It means "to be long-spirited."
* `{{G1163}}` **deî** (oughtest): This word, used in [[1 Timothy 3:15]], highlights the necessity of proper behavior in the church, which is the reason for Paul's letter in case he should **tarry long** `{{G1019}}`. It signifies that which is "necessary (as binding)."
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1019}}` is most significant in its reframing of divine timing.
* **Divine Patience:** The term is used to counter the idea that God is slow or neglectful. The Lord is not **slack** `{{G1019}}`, but is instead longsuffering `{{G3114}}` [[2 Peter 3:9]]. This presents God's timing as an act of mercy rather than inaction.
* **Salvific Purpose:** The reason for God's patience is explicitly stated: He is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" [[2 Peter 3:9]]. The apparent "delay" serves the purpose of allowing more people to be saved.
* **Church Order:** In 1 Timothy, Paul's potential to **tarry long** `{{G1019}}` establishes the basis for his instructions on how one "oughtest to behave" `{{G390}}` in the church, which is the "pillar and ground of the truth" `{{G4769}}` `{{G1477}}` [[1 Timothy 3:15]]. A delay in apostolic presence necessitates a firm understanding of church structure and conduct.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1019}}` is a concise term for delay that is used in both human and divine contexts. While it can refer to a simple personal delay, as with Paul's plans [[1 Timothy 3:15]], its primary theological contribution is to correct misunderstandings about God's fulfillment of His promises `{{G1860}}`. It teaches that what may seem like **slackness** to humanity is in fact the patient, longsuffering nature of a God who desires salvation for all [[2 Peter 3:9]].
TRV