perhaps from εὖ and τίθημι; straight, i.e. (literally) level, or (figuratively) true; adverbially (of time) at once:--anon, by and by, forthwith, immediately, straightway.
Transliteration:euthýs
Pronunciation:yoo-thoos'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) carries a rich semantic range, stemming etymologically from a possible combination of εὖ (eu, "well") and τίθημι (tithēmi, "to place" or "to set"). This etymological root suggests a foundational idea of being "well-placed," "rightly set," or "in proper order."
Its primary literal meaning is "straight," "level," or "direct." This can refer to a physical path, a line, or a surface that is not crooked or uneven. From this literal sense, it extends figuratively to denote that which is "true," "right," "upright," or "righteous" in a moral or ethical sense. It implies integrity, sincerity, and conformity to a correct standard.
Crucially, εὐθύς also functions adverbially to convey a temporal meaning: "immediately," "at once," "forthwith," or "straightway." This temporal usage emphasizes promptness, lack of delay, and direct succession of events. This adverbial sense is remarkably prevalent in the New Testament, particularly in narrative contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) appears frequently in the New Testament, with its usage varying between its literal/figurative and temporal senses.
The temporal adverbial use is especially prominent, contributing significantly to the narrative pace and theological emphasis of the Gospels. Mark's Gospel, in particular, employs εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) with striking regularity, often being referred to as "Mark's favorite word." Its repeated use (over 40 times) creates a sense of urgency, divine power, and rapid progression in Jesus' ministry. For example, after calling the first disciples, Mark notes they "immediately" (εὐθύς) left their nets and followed Him [[Mark 1:18]]. Similarly, healings and exorcisms are often described as happening "immediately," underscoring Jesus' authority and the immediate efficacy of His word [[Mark 1:29-31]], [[Mark 1:42]], [[Mark 5:29]]. This highlights the decisive and unhesitating nature of divine action. Other Gospels and Acts also utilize this temporal sense: Jesus "immediately" came up from the water after His baptism [[Matthew 3:16]], and Saul "immediately" regained his sight [[Acts 9:18]].
In its literal sense of "straight," εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) is used in the Synoptic Gospels in quotations from Isaiah, calling for the preparation of the Lord's way: "Make His paths straight" [[Matthew 3:3]], [[Mark 1:3]], [[Luke 3:4]]. Here, "straight" refers to direct, unobstructed paths, metaphorically representing the removal of spiritual and moral obstacles for the coming of the Messiah.
The figurative sense of "straight" or "right" in a moral context is also present. In [[Acts 8:21]], Peter tells Simon the sorcerer that his heart is "not right" (οὐκ ἔστιν εὐθύς) before God, indicating a lack of sincerity or moral rectitude. Similarly, [[Hebrews 12:13]] exhorts believers to "make straight paths for your feet," which implies living an upright life that avoids stumbling and encourages others. This usage connects physical straightness with moral integrity and righteousness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) intersects with several related Greek words and theological concepts:
* **Temporal Synonyms:**
* παραχρῆμα (parachrēma, `{{G3916}}`): "instantly," "at once." Often used for miraculous healings, emphasizing immediacy.
* αὐτίκα (autika, `{{G822}}`): "immediately," "forthwith." Less common but similar in meaning.
* **Moral/Physical Straightness:**
* ὀρθός (orthos, `{{G3717}}`): "straight," "upright," "correct." Often used for physical posture or correct judgment.
* δίκαιος (dikaios, `{{G1342}}`): "righteous," "just," "equitable." This word captures the moral uprightness implied by εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) in its figurative sense.
* ἀγαθός (agathos, `{{G18}}`): "good," "beneficial." While broader, it relates to the positive moral quality.
* **Antonyms/Contrasting Concepts:**
* σκολιός (skolios, `{{G4646}}`): "crooked," "perverse," "dishonest." This is the direct opposite of "straight" in both literal and moral senses.
* πλατύς (platys, `{{G4116}}`): "broad," "wide." Contrasts with the "straight" or "narrow" way, as seen in [[Matthew 7:13-14]].
The concept of "straightness" is deeply intertwined with biblical themes of divine order, moral integrity, and the directness of God's revelation and action. The urgency conveyed by the temporal usage of εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) is also linked to the swift advent of God's Kingdom and the imperative for human response.
### Theological Significance
The multifaceted meaning of εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) carries profound theological implications:
1. **Divine Immediacy and Authority:** The pervasive use of εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) in describing Jesus' actions, particularly in Mark, underscores the powerful and decisive nature of God's redemptive work. When Jesus heals, casts out demons, or calls disciples, it happens "immediately." This conveys an unhindered divine authority and efficacy; God's will is executed without delay or opposition. It speaks to the active, present, and effective reign of God breaking into human history through Christ.
2. **Urgency of the Kingdom:** The temporal "immediately" highlights the urgent nature of the Gospel message and the dawning of the Kingdom of God. There is no time for procrastination in responding to God's call to repentance and faith. The rapid sequence of events in Jesus' ministry, punctuated by εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`), conveys a sense of divine momentum that demands an immediate human response.
3. **Moral Rectitude and Preparation:** The literal and figurative senses of "straight" or "right" are crucial for understanding human responsibility before God. The call to "make straight the paths of the Lord" [[Matthew 3:3]] is a summons to spiritual and moral preparation, removing obstacles of sin and unrighteousness that hinder one's reception of Christ. Furthermore, for believers, living a life that is "straight" or "right" before God [[Acts 8:21]] signifies integrity, sincerity, and adherence to God's righteous standards. It emphasizes the importance of an upright walk, not just external conformity but internal alignment with divine truth.
4. **Divine Providence and Order:** In a broader sense, εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) points to the order and directness inherent in God's plan. God's actions are not haphazard but proceed with purpose and precision. This provides a theological framework for understanding the certainty and reliability of God's promises and His unfolding will.
### Summary
εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) is a dynamic Greek word signifying both literal and figurative "straightness" and, crucially, temporal "immediacy." In its literal sense, it describes physical directness, as in "straight paths" prepared for the Lord [[Matthew 3:3]]. Figuratively, it denotes moral uprightness, sincerity, and righteousness, reflecting a heart that is "right" before God [[Acts 8:21]]. Most notably, its adverbial use as "immediately" or "straightway" pervades the New Testament narratives, especially Mark's Gospel, where it accentuates the swift, powerful, and decisive nature of Jesus' ministry. Theologically, εὐθύς (euthýs, `{{G2117}}`) illuminates the immediate and authoritative character of divine action, underscores the urgency of responding to the Kingdom of God, and calls believers to live lives of moral rectitude and integrity, making "straight paths" for the Lord in their hearts and actions. It is a word that encapsulates divine purpose, human responsibility, and the compelling immediacy of God's redemptive work.
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