The Greek word hetoímōs, represented by G2093, is an adverb signifying being in readiness. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. Its core meaning is to be prepared or ready.
In its biblical usage, G2093 conveys a state of preparedness for significant events. The Apostle Paul uses the term to express his unwavering commitment, stating he is ready not only to be bound but also to die in Jerusalem for the Lord Jesus Acts 21:13. He also uses it to describe his travel plans, affirming he is ready to visit the Corinthians for a third time 2 Corinthians 12:14. The term is also applied to God, who is described as being ready to judge the living and the dead 1 Peter 4:5, highlighting a state of divine and sovereign preparedness.
Several related words clarify the context in which hetoímōs is used:
- G611 apokrínomai (to conclude for oneself, i.e. (by implication) to respond; by Hebraism (compare עָנָה) to begin to speak (where an address is expected):--answer.): This verb often precedes a declaration of readiness, as when Paul answered those who were trying to dissuade him from going to Jerusalem Acts 21:13.
- G4919 synthrýptō (to crush together, i.e. (figuratively) to dispirit:--break.): This word describes the emotional impact Paul's companions had on him, yet it did not shake his readiness. He asks why they break his heart with their weeping Acts 21:13.
- G1210 déō (a primary verb; to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively):--bind, be in bonds, knit, tie, wind.): This word describes one of the potential consequences Paul was ready for, stating he was prepared to be bound in Jerusalem Acts 21:13.
- G599 apothnḗskō (to die off (literally or figuratively):--be dead, death, die, lie a-dying, be slain (X with).): This highlights the ultimate sacrifice Paul was ready to make, his willingness to die for the name of the Lord Jesus Acts 21:13.
- G2064 érchomai (to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively):--accompany, appear, bring, come, enter, fall out, go, grow, X light, X next, pass, resort, be set.): Paul's readiness is also applied to his apostolic duties, such as being ready to come to the church in Corinth 2 Corinthians 12:14.
- G2655 katanarkáō (to grow utterly torpid, i.e. (by implication) slothful (figuratively, expensive):--be burdensome (chargeable).): Paul qualifies his readiness to visit by stating he will not be burdensome to the Corinthians, showing his considerate posture 2 Corinthians 12:14.
- G2919 krínō (properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, punish:--avenge, conclude, condemn, damn, decree, determine, esteem, judge, go to (sue at the) law, ordain, call in question, sentence to, think.): This term is used for the ultimate divine action for which God is ready: to judge the living and the dead 1 Peter 4:5.
The theological weight of G2093 is seen in its application to both human devotion and divine authority.
- Willingness for Sacrifice: The word captures the essence of radical discipleship. Paul's readiness to be bound and even to die for the name of Jesus demonstrates a commitment that anticipates suffering as a part of faith Acts 21:13.
- Preparedness for Ministry: It extends to the practical duties of ministry. Paul is ready to visit the church in Corinth, not as a burden, but as a parent caring for his children, illustrating a selfless and prepared approach to pastoral care 2 Corinthians 12:14.
- Imminence of Divine Judgment: The term is used to describe God's posture toward humanity. He is ready to judge the living and the dead, a declaration of God's sovereign timeline and the certainty of future accountability for all 1 Peter 4:5.
In summary, G2093 conveys a powerful state of preparedness. While appearing only a few times, it is used in pivotal moments to describe the resolve of an apostle willing to face death, the eagerness of a pastor to serve his flock, and the solemn certainty of God's readiness to execute judgment. The word hetoímōs thus illustrates a key spiritual posture: a readiness for both service and sacrifice in light of divine realities.
TRV