### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kateuthýnō**, represented by `{{G2720}}`, means to **straighten fully** or, figuratively, to **guide** or **direct**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a specific application focused on divine guidance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2720}}` consistently describes an action performed by God or the Lord. It is used to describe the act of guiding feet into "the way of peace" [[Luke 1:79]] for those in darkness. It is also used in a prayer for the Lord to **direct** the hearts of believers into the love of God and the patient waiting for Christ [[2 Thessalonians 3:5]]. Finally, it is an appeal for God and the Lord Jesus to **direct** the apostles' way to the Thessalonian believers, clearing a path for their journey [[1 Thessalonians 3:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{G2720}}` operates:
* `{{G3598}}` **hodós**: This word for a **road** or **way** is the object of direction in two of the three occurrences. God is asked to **direct** a "way unto you" [[1 Thessalonians 3:11]] and to guide feet into the "way of peace" [[Luke 1:79]].
* `{{G1515}}` **eirḗnē**: Defined as **peace** or **rest**, this is the ultimate destination of the guidance offered in [[Luke 1:79]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē**: The Lord is asked to direct believers' hearts into this **love**, specifically "the love of God" [[2 Thessalonians 3:5]].
* `{{G5281}}` **hypomonḗ**: Alongside love, the Lord directs hearts toward **cheerful (or hopeful) endurance** or **patience**, described as the "patient waiting for Christ" [[2 Thessalonians 3:5]].
* `{{G2014}}` **epiphaínō**: Meaning to **shine upon** or **give light**, this action precedes the guidance in [[Luke 1:79]], where light is given in order to **guide** those in darkness.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2720}}` is seen in its consistent application:
* **Divine Agency:** In all instances, the act of directing or guiding is performed by God the Father or the Lord Jesus Christ. The guidance originates from a divine source, not human effort ([[1 Thessalonians 3:11]], [[2 Thessalonians 3:5]]).
* **Comprehensive Guidance:** The term is applied to different aspects of the believer's life. It involves the direction of one's physical path or actions ("our feet" in [[Luke 1:79]]), one's spiritual and emotional core ("your hearts" in [[2 Thessalonians 3:5]]), and one's ministerial mission ("our way" in [[1 Thessalonians 3:11]]).
* **Purposeful Direction:** The guidance is never aimless; it is always toward a specific, positive outcome. The goal is to lead believers into states like **peace** [[Luke 1:79]], **love** of God, and **patience** for Christ [[2 Thessalonians 3:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2720}}` **kateuthýnō** is a specific term for divine direction. Though used only three times, it powerfully communicates the concept of God actively "straightening" the path for believers. This guidance is comprehensive, affecting the believer’s journey, heart, and actions. It is a purposeful act that leads believers toward the ultimate goals of peace, love, and steadfast hope in Christ.
TRV