### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **euchḗ**, represented by `{{G2171}}`, describes a wish that is expressed either as a petition to God or as a votive obligation. Its base definition includes both **prayer** and **vow**. It is a specific term, appearing only 3 times in 3 verses within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2171}}` captures two distinct forms of devotion. In the context of healing, it is translated as **prayer**, where "the **prayer** of faith" is said to save the sick [[James 5:15]]. In the book of Acts, it is used twice and translated as **vow**. It first describes a personal **vow** Paul had taken [[Acts 18:18]], and later refers to a **vow** undertaken by four other men [[Acts 21:23]]. These instances show the word applying to both spoken petitions and binding personal commitments.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G2171}}` is found:
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): This word denotes moral conviction and reliance upon Christ. It is directly linked to `{{G2171}}` in the phrase "the prayer of **faith**" [[James 5:15]], indicating that the prayer's effectiveness is tied to belief.
* `{{G4335}}` **proseuchḗ** (prayer): A term for prayer or worship. While related, `{{G2171}}` is distinct in that it can also signify a votive obligation, whereas `{{G4335}}` is more consistently used for prayer, such as when believers are told to continue in **prayer** [[Colossians 4:2]].
* `{{G435}}` **anḗr** (man): Meaning an individual male. This term is used to identify the "four **men**" who had taken a vow in Jerusalem, establishing the subjects of the obligation [[Acts 21:23]].
* `{{G4357}}` **prosménō** (to abide still, continue in): This word describes Paul's action of **tarrying** in Cenchrea, which provides the setting for the mention of his vow [[Acts 18:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2171}}` is seen in its two primary applications:
* **Votive Obligation:** The use of `{{G2171}}` to mean **vow** highlights a form of personal, dedicated commitment to God. This is demonstrated by Paul's actions [[Acts 18:18]] and by the four men in Jerusalem [[Acts 21:23]], showing it as a serious and deliberate act of devotion.
* **Petition in Faith:** As **prayer**, the term is explicitly qualified by its connection to faith. The "prayer of **faith**" in [[James 5:15]] is presented as a powerful petition with the ability to bring about salvation and forgiveness for the sick, underscoring the importance of belief in communion with God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2171}}` is a focused term that encompasses two significant aspects of a believer's relationship with God. It represents both the solemn, binding nature of a personal **vow** and the heartfelt petition of a **prayer** made effective through faith. Though it appears infrequently, its usage provides a window into different ways devotion and commitment were expressed in the early church.
TRV