from εὐθύς and δρόμος; to lay a straight course, i.e. sail direct:--(come) with a straight course.
Transliteration:euthydroméō
Pronunciation:yoo-thoo-drom-eh'-o
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb εὐθυδρομέω (euthydroméō, `{{G2113}}`) is a compound word derived from εὐθύς (euthys, `{{G2112}}`), meaning "straight" or "direct," and δρόμος (dromos, `{{G1697}}`), meaning "a course" or "a running." Literally, it signifies "to run straight" or "to take a direct course." In its specific New Testament usage, it carries a nautical connotation, meaning "to sail a straight course," "to make a direct voyage," or "to come with a straight course." This implies an unimpeded, efficient, and purposeful journey, free from significant deviations, delays, or being driven off course by adverse conditions. The semantic range emphasizes directness, speed, and the successful navigation of a pre-determined route.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb εὐθυδρομέω appears exclusively in the book of Acts, twice, both times describing the sea voyages of the Apostle Paul and his companions:
* **[[Acts 16:11]]**: "Therefore, putting out to sea from Troas, we ran a straight course to Samothrace, and the next day to Neapolis." This verse describes the beginning of Paul's second missionary journey into Macedonia. The phrase "ran a straight course" (εὐθυδρομήσαμεν) highlights the swift and direct nature of their voyage from Troas to Samothrace. This directness suggests favorable winds and an unhindered passage, crucial for the rapid dissemination of the Gospel into new territories. It underscores the divine enablement for the mission's progress.
* **[[Acts 21:1]]**: "Now when we had departed from them and had set sail, we ran a straight course to Cos, the next day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara." Here, the word describes a segment of Paul's final journey to Jerusalem, following his third missionary tour. Again, the use of εὐθυδρομέω emphasizes an unproblematic and direct passage between islands, indicative of a smooth and purposeful progression towards a specific destination. In both instances, the word serves as a concise descriptor of successful and efficient sea travel, vital for the apostolic mission.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share semantic connections with εὐθυδρομέω, either as components or related concepts:
* **εὐθύς (euthys, `{{G2112}}`)**: The primary root meaning "straight," "direct," or "immediate." It forms the core concept of directness in εὐθυδρομέω.
* **δρόμος (dromos, `{{G1697}}`)**: The second component, meaning "a course," "a race," or "a running." It contributes the idea of movement along a path.
* **πορεύομαι (poreuomai, `{{G4198}}`)**: A more general verb meaning "to go" or "to travel," often used for land or sea journeys, but without the specific nuance of directness implied by εὐθυδρομέω.
* **πλέω (pleō, `{{G4131}}`)**: "To sail," a more general term for sea travel, whereas εὐθυδρομέω specifies the *manner* of sailing (straight).
* The concept of "straight paths" or "straight ways" is also found in the Old Testament (e.g., in Proverbs, often related to moral conduct or God's guidance, cf. `{{H3477}}` *yashar*). This undergirds the metaphorical application of "straightness" in the Christian life.
### Theological Significance
While εὐθυδρομέω primarily describes a physical act of navigation, its consistent use in the context of Paul's missionary journeys imbues it with subtle theological significance:
* **Divine Providence and Guidance**: The ability of the apostles to sail "a straight course" implies favorable conditions—calm seas and good winds—which can be interpreted as divine provision and guidance. God was smoothing the way for the Gospel's advance, ensuring the swift and unhindered progress of His messengers. This highlights God's active involvement in the logistics of His mission.
* **Purposeful Ministry**: The directness of the voyages symbolizes the focused and purposeful nature of the apostolic ministry. There were no aimless wanderings or unnecessary detours; the apostles were moving with divine intentionality toward their God-given objectives. This serves as a model for believers to pursue their callings with similar clarity and dedication.
* **Efficiency in Spreading the Gospel**: The word subtly underscores the efficiency and effectiveness by which the early church, empowered by the Spirit, spread the message of Christ. The swift journeys facilitated the rapid establishment of new churches and the widespread proclamation of the good news.
* **Metaphor for the Christian Walk**: Though not explicitly used metaphorically in the New Testament, the imagery of "sailing a straight course" resonates with the biblical call for believers to walk in "straight paths" (cf. [[Hebrews 12:13]]) and to live lives of integrity and direct obedience to God's will, avoiding the circuitous routes of sin or distraction.
### Summary
εὐθυδρομέω (euthydroméō, `{{G2113}}`) denotes "to sail a straight course" or "to make a direct voyage." Its two occurrences in Acts ([[Acts 16:11]], [[Acts 21:1]]) describe the efficient and unhindered sea journeys of the Apostle Paul, crucial for the swift progress of his missionary endeavors. The word's theological significance lies in its subtle portrayal of divine providence, demonstrating God's active role in facilitating the unhindered spread of the Gospel through His chosen instruments. It underscores the purposeful and efficient nature of apostolic ministry, serving as an implicit reminder of God's sovereign control over the means and methods by which His redemptive plan unfolds.
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