from a compound of εὖ and ὁδός; to help on the road, i.e. (passively) succeed in reaching; figuratively, to succeed in business affairs:--(have a) prosper(-ous journey).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **euodóō**, represented by `{{G2137}}`, is defined as helping on the road, succeeding in reaching a destination, or figuratively, to succeed in business affairs. It is formed from a compound of words meaning "good" and "road." This term appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses**, carrying the sense of having a **prosperous journey** or to **prosper** in general.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2137}}` conveys prosperity that is aligned with God's will. In [[Romans 1:10]], Paul expresses his hope to **have a prosperous journey** to visit the Roman believers, explicitly linking this success to "the will of God." The term is used in a financial sense in [[1 Corinthians 16:2]], where believers are instructed to set aside an offering "as God hath **prospered** him," connecting material success with faithful stewardship. The word appears twice in [[3 John 1:2]], where the author wishes for his friend to **prosper** and be in health, just as his soul **prospereth**, indicating that true prosperity involves both the physical and spiritual aspects of life.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G2137}}`:
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This word relates to the "journey" aspect of `{{G2137}}`. Paul desires a prosperous journey `{{G2137}}` so that he might **come** `{{G2064}}` to the Romans [[Romans 1:10]].
* `{{G2172}}` **eúchomai** (to wish; by implication, to pray to God): This term is directly connected in [[3 John 1:2]], where John **wishes** `{{G2172}}` for his friend to **prosper** `{{G2137}}`.
* `{{G5198}}` **hygiaínō** (to have sound health, i.e. be well): This word is paired with `{{G2137}}` in [[3 John 1:2]], where the wish is for the recipient to prosper and **be in health** `{{G5198}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological concept of `{{G2137}}` points to a well-rounded, God-centered success.
* **Prosperity as a God-guided Path:** The use in [[Romans 1:10]] establishes that a successful journey or endeavor is one that is ultimately guided by and subject to "the will of God."
* **Prosperity for a Purpose:** In [[1 Corinthians 16:2]], financial prosperity is not an end in itself but a means for generosity and supporting the work of the church.
* **Holistic Well-being:** The most complete picture comes from [[3 John 1:2]], which defines ideal prosperity as a state where one's external circumstances and physical health mirror the healthy, prosperous condition of one's soul.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2137}}` defines prosperity not merely as material gain or an easy path, but as a holistic state of well-being. Whether referring to a journey, finances, or general life affairs, the word implies a success that is rooted in the will of God, demonstrated through stewardship, and reflective of a healthy inner, spiritual life. It moves beyond worldly success to a divinely-aligned and purposeful prosperity.
TRV