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.
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.
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.
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.
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