### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bradýtēs**, represented by `{{G1022}}`, defines the concept of **slackness** or tardiness. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its singular use provides a specific contrast to God's character, particularly concerning His promises.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1022}}` is in [[2 Peter 3:9]]. In this verse, the author addresses the perception that God is slow to act. The text clarifies that the Lord `{{G2962}}` is not slack concerning His promise `{{G1860}}` in the way some humans might measure **slackness** `{{G1022}}`. Instead of tardiness, God's perceived delay is revealed to be an act of longsuffering, giving time for all to come to repentance `{{G3341}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the meaning of **slackness**:
* `{{G1019}}` **bradýnō** (to delay): This is the verb form from which `{{G1022}}` is derived. It is used in the same verse to state that the Lord is not "slack" or does not **tarry** [[2 Peter 3:9]].
* `{{G3114}}` **makrothyméō** (to be longsuffering): This word is presented as the direct contrast to slackness. God's perceived delay is not tardiness but rather an active state of being **longsuffering** toward humanity [[2 Peter 3:9]].
* `{{G1860}}` **epangelía** (promise): This specifies what the Lord is not slack about. The **promise** is described as a divine assurance of good, which God is faithful to fulfill [[2 Peter 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1022}}` is found in its use as a counterpoint to explain the nature of God's timing and patience.
* **Contrasting Divine and Human Perspective:** The term is used to address a human misunderstanding. What some might perceive as **slackness** is, in reality, a display of divine character [[2 Peter 3:9]].
* **Purpose in Perceived Delay:** The verse clarifies that God's timing is not passive tardiness but active **longsuffering** `{{G3114}}`. This patience is purposeful, as God is not **willing** `{{G1014}}` that any should **perish** `{{G622}}`, but desires all to reach **repentance** `{{G3341}}`.
* **Upholding God's Faithfulness:** By refuting the idea of **slackness**, the text affirms the certainty of God's **promise** `{{G1860}}`. The Lord `{{G2962}}` is not slow or forgetful but is patient, which itself is an outworking of His promise.
### Summary
In summary, **bradýtēs** `{{G1022}}` carries its meaning through a single, powerful negation. While it means **slackness**, its only biblical use is to declare that this trait is not part of God's character. It serves to reframe the concept of divine timing, showing that what might appear to be a delay is actually God's longsuffering patience, intended to lead people to repentance. The word's significance lies in how it sharpens our understanding of God's faithfulness to His promises.
TRV