### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G2149 (εὐρύχωρος, *eurýchōros*) is a compound adjective derived from εὐρύς (eurys, wide) and χώρα (chōra, space, land, region). Its core meaning is "spacious," "broad," or "wide-roomed." Literally, it describes something having ample physical space. Metaphorically, as it is used in the New Testament, it denotes a path or way of life that is unconstrained, easy, or accommodating to many, in contrast to something restrictive or difficult. The term carries the semantic range of expansiveness, often implying a lack of boundaries or demands.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G2149 (εὐρύχωρος) appears only once in the New Testament, in the pivotal teaching of Jesus concerning the two ways:
* **[[Matthew 7:13]]**: "Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is **broad** that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many."
In this sole occurrence, εὐρύχωρος describes the "way" (ὁδός, `{{G3598}}`) that leads to destruction (ἀπώλεια, `{{G684}}`). The context is one of stark contrast: the "broad" way is set against the "narrow" (στενός, `{{G4728}}`) gate and the "difficult" (τεθλιμμένος, `{{G2346}}`, implying constricted or afflicted) way that leads to life. The "broad" way signifies a path that is easy to find and traverse, appealing to the masses because it makes few demands and accommodates various lifestyles and beliefs. It is "broad" precisely because it does not require repentance, self-denial, or adherence to God's specific commands. Its popularity and ease are deceptive, as its ultimate destination is ruin. This verse serves as a profound warning, highlighting the danger of following the path of least resistance or popular opinion.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding G2149 is enhanced by examining its constituent parts and antonyms, as well as the broader theological concepts it illuminates:
* **εὐρύς (eurys, `{{G2151}}`)**: The root for "wide" or "broad," emphasizing the unconstrained nature.
* **χώρα (chōra, `{{G5561}}`)**: "Space," "place," or "region," contributing to the idea of ample room.
* **στενός (stenos, `{{G4728}}`)**: The direct antonym, meaning "narrow" or "constricted," used to describe the gate and way to life in [[Matthew 7:13-14]]. This contrast is essential for grasping the full force of εὐρύχωρος.
* **ὁδός (hodos, `{{G3598}}`)**: "Way" or "path," which is the noun G2149 modifies, underscoring the metaphorical journey of life.
* **πύλη (pylē, `{{G4439}}`)**: "Gate," also used in the contrast, indicating the point of entry onto the respective paths.
* **Concepts**: The "Two Ways" motif, prevalent in both Old Testament wisdom literature (e.g., [[Psalm 1]]) and intertestamental Jewish writings, is powerfully articulated here. It speaks to the fundamental moral and spiritual choices humanity faces, leading to vastly different eternal outcomes. Other related concepts include discipleship, righteousness, sin, judgment, and salvation.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of G2149 in [[Matthew 7:13]] carries immense theological weight, serving as a foundational warning in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount:
* **The Nature of Spiritual Choice**: The "broad way" represents the natural inclination of humanity towards ease, self-gratification, and adherence to popular, unchallenging norms. It signifies a life lived apart from God's specific commands, accommodating various forms of sin and worldly wisdom. This path is "broad" because it requires no radical transformation or submission to divine authority.
* **Divine Judgment and Consequences**: The stark reality that the "broad way" leads to "destruction" (ἀπώλεια) underscores the gravity of spiritual choices. It is a clear declaration that not all paths are equally valid or lead to the same end. God's justice ensures that the consequences of rejecting His way are dire.
* **The Call to Discipleship**: By contrasting the broad way with the narrow way, Jesus issues a profound call to intentional discipleship. Following Christ is depicted as a deliberate choice to forsake the popular, easy path for a more demanding, yet ultimately life-giving, journey. It implies a conscious commitment to obedience, self-denial, and perseverance, which are often at odds with societal norms.
* **Exclusivity of Salvation**: While the "broad way" is inclusive of many, the "narrow way" is exclusive, emphasizing that salvation is found only through Christ and His teachings, not through general religiosity or moral relativism.
### Summary
The Greek word G2149 (εὐρύχωρος, *eurýchōros*), meaning "spacious" or "broad," is a compound term derived from "wide" and "space." Its singular, yet profoundly significant, appearance in [[Matthew 7:13]] describes the "broad way" that leads to destruction. This "broad" path is characterized by its ease, popularity, and lack of spiritual demands, appealing to the many who prefer an unconstrained existence. Theologically, εὐρύχωρος serves as a powerful contrast to the "narrow" and "difficult" way that leads to life, highlighting the critical choice between two distinct spiritual paths. It underscores the severity of divine judgment for those who choose the path of least resistance and emphasizes the demanding, yet ultimately redemptive, nature of true discipleship.
TRV