probably strengthened from πούς; to "speed" ("study"), i.e. urge on (diligently or earnestly); by implication, to await eagerly:--(make, with) haste unto.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb σπεύδω (speúdō, `{{G4692}}`) carries a core meaning of "to hasten" or "to speed," often implying a sense of urgency, diligence, or earnestness. Its etymological root is likely connected to πούς (pous, foot), suggesting rapid movement. The semantic range extends beyond mere physical speed to encompass a volitional and often fervent disposition. This includes "to urge on" or "to make haste" with a specific purpose or intention. Crucially, by implication, it can also signify "to await eagerly" or "to long for," shifting from an active, outward movement to an inward, fervent anticipation. This dual aspect—active hastening and eager expectation—is vital for understanding its full biblical import.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
σπεύδω appears in the New Testament with significant contextual nuances:
* **Luke 19:5-6 (Zacchaeus):** When Jesus calls Zacchaeus down from the sycamore tree, He commands, "Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house" [[Luke 19:5]]. The text immediately states, "So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully" [[Luke 19:6]]. Here, σπεύδω describes Zacchaeus's immediate and eager obedience to Jesus's invitation. It is not merely a physical act of descending quickly, but a demonstration of his readiness and joyful reception of the Lord. This instance highlights a positive, unreserved response to divine initiative.
* **Acts 20:16 (Paul's Journey):** Luke records Paul's determination to reach Jerusalem: "For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost" [[Acts 20:16]]. In this context, σπεύδω conveys Paul's earnest desire and strategic urgency to arrive in Jerusalem by a specific time, likely motivated by his missionary commitments and perhaps a desire to participate in the festival. It speaks to the diligent and purposeful nature of his apostolic journeys.
* **2 Peter 3:12 (Eschatological Hope):** This is perhaps the most profound and debated usage: "looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God" [[2 Peter 3:12]]. The phrase "hastening" (σπεύδοντας) presents two primary interpretations among scholars:
1. **Actively Hastening:** Believers, through their righteous living, evangelism, and fervent prayers, somehow accelerate or contribute to the timing of the Lord's return. This view suggests that human actions can influence divine eschatological timing.
2. **Eagerly Awaiting/Longing:** Believers are "eagerly awaiting" or "earnestly desiring" the Day of God. This interpretation emphasizes the believer's internal attitude of fervent hope and anticipation, which then motivates a life of holiness and godliness (as described in [[2 Peter 3:11]]). This view aligns more closely with the broader biblical understanding of God's sovereign control over timing and avoids placing divine prerogative in human hands. The context of "looking for" (προσδοκῶντας, prosdokōntas, `{{G4327}}`) strongly supports the interpretation of eager anticipation. Therefore, the most robust understanding of σπεύδω here is that of a fervent, active longing for the Lord's return, a hope that shapes the believer's present conduct.
### Related Words & Concepts
σπεύδω is closely related to other terms expressing speed, diligence, and earnestness:
* **σπουδή (spoudē, `{{G4710}}`):** The noun form, meaning "haste," "diligence," "earnestness," or "zeal." This word frequently appears in hortatory contexts, encouraging believers to be diligent in their faith and service (e.g., [[Romans 12:8]], [[2 Corinthians 7:11]], [[2 Peter 1:5]]). The semantic overlap between σπεύδω and σπουδή highlights the active, purposeful nature of the haste.
* **ταχύς (tachys, `{{G5036}}`):** An adjective meaning "swift" or "quick," often referring to the speed of an action without necessarily implying intention or earnestness. While related to speed, σπεύδω carries a stronger volitional component.
* **ἐπείγω (epeigō, `{{G1993}}`):** A verb also meaning "to hasten" or "to urge on," often with a sense of urgency.
* **Concepts:** The word σπεύδω encapsulates biblical concepts such as:
* **Diligence:** A persistent and careful application of effort.
* **Earnestness:** A sincere and intense conviction.
* **Urgency:** A sense of immediate importance.
* **Anticipation/Hope:** Particularly in its eschatological usage, it speaks to the active longing for future divine realities.
* **Readiness:** A state of preparedness to act or receive.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of σπεύδω lies in its portrayal of a believer's disposition towards God's will and promises.
1. **Responsive Obedience:** Zacchaeus's immediate "hastening" exemplifies a joyful and unreserved response to Christ's call. It underscores that true obedience is often characterized by promptness and eagerness, rather than reluctance or delay. This reflects a heart open to divine invitation and transformation.
2. **Purposeful Ministry:** Paul's "hurrying" to Jerusalem illustrates the focused and urgent nature of apostolic ministry. It speaks to a divine imperative that drives servants of God to fulfill their calling with diligence and strategic intent, recognizing the preciousness of time and opportunity.
3. **Active Eschatological Hope:** The most profound theological implication emerges from [[2 Peter 3:12]]. When understood as "eagerly awaiting" or "longing for" the Day of God, σπεύδω describes the fervent, active hope that characterizes genuine Christian living. This is not passive waiting, but an anticipation so intense that it shapes one's present conduct, motivating a life of holiness, godliness, and evangelistic zeal. The believer's eagerness for Christ's return serves as a powerful impetus for living in a manner consistent with the values of the coming kingdom, thereby testifying to the reality of that hope in a fallen world. This eager expectation is a vital aspect of biblical eschatology, fostering perseverance and purity.
### Summary
σπεύδω (speúdō, `{{G4692}}`) is a rich Greek verb meaning "to hasten" or "to speed," but infused with connotations of diligence, earnestness, and purpose. Its semantic range extends to "eagerly awaiting" or "longing for." In the New Testament, it describes Zacchaeus's joyful and prompt obedience to Jesus's call ([[Luke 19:5-6]]) and Paul's urgent and purposeful journey ([[Acts 20:16]]). Most significantly, in [[2 Peter 3:12]], it portrays the believer's active, fervent anticipation of the Day of God. This eschatological "hastening" is best understood as an eager longing that profoundly motivates a life of holiness and godliness, rather than an attempt to accelerate divine timing. Thus, σπεύδω encapsulates a core aspect of biblical faith: a heart of readiness, earnestness, and active hope in response to God's presence, will, and future promises.
TRV