### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eúchomai**, represented by `{{G2172}}`, is a verb used to express a **wish** or, by implication, to **pray to God**. It appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses** in the Bible. This term captures the personal nature of a desire, whether it is a heartfelt plea directed to a deity or a sincere wish for another's well-being.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G2172}}` varies from direct prayer to expressing profound personal desires. It is used when Paul explicitly states, "I **pray** to God that ye do no evil" [[2 Corinthians 13:7]], showing a direct petition. The term also conveys a strong wish for another person's welfare, as seen in [[3 John 1:2]]: "Beloved, I **wish** above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health." In moments of great distress, it signifies a deep longing, such as when sailors caught in a storm "**wished** for the day" [[Acts 27:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and content of what is wished or prayed for:
* `{{G1162}}` **déēsis** (a petition:--prayer, request, supplication.): This word often describes the substance of a prayer. It is used in connection with `{{G2172}}` in [[James 5:16]], which instructs believers to **pray** `{{G2172}}` for one another, noting that the **prayer** `{{G1162}}` of a righteous person is powerful.
* `{{G2137}}` **euodóō** (to help on the road... to succeed in business affairs:--(have a) prosper(-ous journey).): This term describes a specific outcome wished for. In [[3 John 1:2]], the author's **wish** `{{G2172}}` is for the recipient to **prosper** `{{G2137}}` and be in health.
* `{{G1415}}` **dynatós** (powerful or capable... mighty): This word describes the state of strength that Paul desires for the Corinthian believers. He states, "this also we **wish** `{{G2172}}`, even your perfection," which is linked to them being **strong** `{{G1415}}` [[2 Corinthians 13:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2172}}` is evident in its application within the early church.
* **Intercessory Care:** The use of `{{G2172}}` in [[James 5:16]] establishes a clear biblical instruction for believers to **pray** for one another for the purpose of healing. This highlights a community's responsibility to care for its members through prayer.
* **Pastoral Aspiration:** Paul's use of the word reveals his deep pastoral heart. He **prays** for believers to "do no evil" [[2 Corinthians 13:7]] and **wishes** for their "perfection" `{{G2676}}` [[2 Corinthians 13:9]], demonstrating that a key apostolic focus is the spiritual maturity of the church.
* **Sacrificial Identification:** In [[Romans 9:3]], Paul uses `{{G2172}}` to express a radical and selfless love, stating he "could **wish** that myself were accursed from Christ" for the sake of his kinsmen. This illustrates a profound desire for the salvation of others, even at immense personal cost.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2172}}` **eúchomai** is a significant term that encompasses both personal wishes and direct prayers to God. It is used to express desires for physical well-being, such as prosperity and health, as well as deep spiritual aspirations for fellow believers. Its most profound use reveals a love so deep it is willing to express a wish for self-sacrifice for the salvation of others, making it a powerful word of intercession and pastoral love.
TRV