### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **orthopodéō**, represented by `{{G3716}}`, is defined as being straight-footed or, in a figurative sense, to go directly forward and **walk uprightly**. It appears **2 times** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Though rare, its usage powerfully conveys the idea of living in a way that is direct, honest, and in perfect alignment with a guiding standard.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical context for `{{G3716}}` is a pivotal moment of confrontation in [[Galatians 2:14]]. The Apostle Paul observes that Peter and other Jewish believers were not acting consistently. He states that he saw "they **walked not uprightly** according to the truth of the gospel" [[Galatians 2:14]]. This failure was demonstrated by Peter, a Jew `{{G2453}}`, first living like a Gentile and then compelling Gentile believers to live as Jews `{{G2450}}`, a hypocritical action that deviated from the straight path of gospel truth.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify the standard by which one is to **walk uprightly**:
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): This is the measure for correct walking. The failure was a deviation from "the **truth** of the gospel" [[Galatians 2:14]]. The gospel is presented as the "word of **truth**" [[Ephesians 1:13]].
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (a good message, i.e. the gospel): This specifies the nature of the truth. To **walk uprightly** is to have one's conduct match the **gospel**, which is the power of God for salvation to all who believe, both Jew and Greek [[Romans 1:16]].
* `{{G2450}}` **Ioudaḯzō** (to become a Judæan, i.e. "Judaize"): This describes the action being forced upon the Gentiles. Compelling them "to **live as do the Jews**" was the specific behavior that was not upright, as it contradicted the gospel's message of unity [[Galatians 2:14]].
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live): This verb highlights the practical, daily conduct in question. Peter's own choice to **live** "after the manner of Gentiles" was in direct conflict with his demands on others, exposing his crooked path [[Galatians 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3716}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use, illustrating a core principle of Christian living.
* **Gospel Consistency:** The primary point is that one's actions and life must be in straight alignment with the gospel. To not **walk uprightly** is to be hypocritical, undermining the integrity of "the truth of the **gospel**" [[Galatians 2:14]].
* **A Standard of Truth:** The concept of walking a straight path establishes the **truth** `{{G225}}` as an objective and unwavering standard for conduct. Any deviation from this line is a spiritual and ethical failure.
* **Unity in the Faith:** The context of Peter's failure to **walk uprightly** was his separation from Gentile believers. This shows that walking correctly according to the gospel is essential for maintaining the unity of the faith, where there is "neither **Jew** nor Greek" [[Galatians 3:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3716}}` is more than its literal definition of being "straight-footed." It serves as a potent metaphor for ethical and theological integrity. Its lone appearance in scripture at [[Galatians 2:14]] anchors this integrity directly to "the truth of the gospel," demanding that a believer's conduct be in perfect, unwavering alignment with the message they profess. The word powerfully illustrates that how one lives is a direct reflection of what one truly believes.
TRV