### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tríbos**, represented by `{{G5147}}`, refers to a **path**, specifically "a rut or worn track." It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The term suggests a route that has been established through use and requires preparation or straightening.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In every instance, `{{G5147}}` is found within a quotation from the prophet **Esaias** `{{G2268}}`, as recorded in the gospels ([[Matthew 3:3]], [[Mark 1:3]], [[Luke 3:4]]). The word is used to describe the **paths** of the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` that must be made **straight** `{{G2117}}`. This preparation is announced by "The **voice** `{{G5456}}` of one crying `{{G994}}` in the **wilderness** `{{G2048}}`," calling for the way of the Lord to be prepared. Luke's account specifies that this is **written** `{{G1125}}` in "the **book** `{{G976}}` of the **words** `{{G3056}}` of Esaias the prophet" [[Luke 3:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of **tríbos** within its prophetic context:
* `{{G3598}}` **hodós** (a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means:--journey, (high-)way): This word is used in parallel with **tríbos** in all three occurrences, commanding people to "Prepare ye the **way** `{{G3598}}` of the Lord" [[Matthew 3:3]].
* `{{G2090}}` **hetoimázō** (to prepare:--prepare, provide, make ready): This verb describes the action that must be taken regarding the way and the paths. The call is to **prepare** the way for the Lord’s arrival [[Luke 3:4]].
* `{{G2117}}` **euthýs** (straight, i.e. (literally) level, or (figuratively) true; adverbially (of time) at once:--anon, by and by, forthwith, immediately, straightway): This word describes the necessary condition of the **paths**, indicating they must be made level and true [[Mark 1:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5147}}` is centered on the theme of spiritual preparation:
* **A Call to Readiness:** The use of **tríbos** in the context of preparing for the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` elevates its meaning from a physical track to a spiritual course. The command to "make his **paths** straight" is a direct call for readiness for a divine visitation [[Matthew 3:3]].
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The term is exclusively used to cite a prophecy by **Esaias** `{{G2268}}`, highlighting the fulfillment of scripture. This connects the concept of making a path with God's foreordained plan spoken through his **prophet** `{{G4396}}` [[Luke 3:4]].
* **Clearing Obstacles:** A "worn track" or "rut" implies a pre-existing route. The command to make it **straight** `{{G2117}}` suggests removing obstacles and correcting the course, a metaphor for clearing the way for the Lord in the **wilderness** `{{G2048}}`, a place of spiritual testing [[Mark 1:3]].
### Summary
In summary, **tríbos** `{{G5147}}` is a specific term for a **path** or track that is used singularly in scripture to convey a message of preparation. All of its occurrences point to the prophetic call to make the **paths** of the **Lord** straight, transforming the image of a physical road into a powerful metaphor for spiritual readiness and the clearing of obstacles before the coming of the Lord.
TRV