### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hēdéōs**, represented by `{{G2234}}`, is an adverb meaning sweetly or with pleasure, commonly translated as **gladly**. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses, describing the manner in which a person or a group receives a spoken message. Its use highlights the attitude of the hearer, whether positive, conflicted, or misguided.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2234}}` is used in several contexts. It describes Herod, who, despite **fearing** `{{G5399}}` John the Baptist as a **just** `{{G1342}}` and **holy** `{{G40}}` man, nevertheless **heard** `{{G191}}` him **gladly** [[Mark 6:20]]. This suggests a complex reception of a righteous message. Similarly, the common people are described as having **heard** `{{G191}}` Jesus **gladly** [[Mark 12:37]]. In a contrasting, sarcastic use, Paul tells the Corinthians that since they are so **wise** `{{G5429}}`, they **suffer** `{{G430}}` fools **gladly** [[2 Corinthians 11:19]], pointing out their poor discernment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of hearing and reception:
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): This verb is directly modified by **hēdéōs** in two of its occurrences, establishing that the gladness is related to the act of hearing a message ([[Mark 6:20]], [[Mark 12:37]]).
* `{{G430}}` **anéchomai** (put up with, endure, suffer): This word is paired with **hēdéōs** in [[2 Corinthians 11:19]], where Paul points out the Corinthians' misguided patience, as they "suffer fools **gladly**."
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. revere): This describes Herod's state of mind toward John. He **feared** him, yet also heard him **gladly**, revealing a complex internal state [[Mark 6:20]].
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (equitable... just, right(-eous)): This term describes the character of John the Baptist, a **just** man whose words were heard **gladly** even by a conflicted ruler [[Mark 6:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2234}}` is tied to the nature of receiving spoken truth.
* **The Condition of the Hearer:** The word reveals that a positive emotional response to a message is not sufficient for true change. Herod **heard** `{{G191}}` a **just** `{{G1342}}` man **gladly**, but this did not ultimately lead to righteous action [[Mark 6:20]].
* **Discernment in Listening:** The contrast between the people hearing Jesus **gladly** [[Mark 12:37]] and the Corinthians hearing fools **gladly** [[2 Corinthians 11:19]] serves as a warning. Eager reception must be paired with discernment, as the Corinthians' self-proclaimed wisdom made them susceptible to false teaching.
* **The Appeal of Truth and Error:** The use of **hēdéōs** shows that both divine truth from Jesus and deceptive foolishness can be received with pleasure. The value of that reception depends on the source of the message and the wisdom of the listener.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2234}}` provides a nuanced look at the act of listening. It is more than just a simple expression of pleasure; it is a descriptor that reveals the disposition of the audience. From the conflicted interest of a fearful king to the eager reception of the common people and the misguided tolerance of a proud church, **hēdéōs** illustrates that how one hears is as significant as what is heard, carrying profound implications for faith, discernment, and obedience.
TRV