βαθύς

deep, early, profound

Definition

The adjective βαθύς primarily means 'deep', describing physical depth, as in the 'deep' well of John 4:11. It also carries a metaphorical sense of 'profound' or 'extreme'. A distinct temporal usage appears in Luke 24:1, where 'deep dawn' (ὄρθρου βαθέως) refers to the very early morning, the first moments of dawn, emphasizing the time the women visited Jesus's tomb.

Biblical Usage

This word is used three times in the New Testament, each illustrating a different nuance. In John 4:11, it describes the physical depth of Jacob's well. In Luke 24:1, it modifies 'dawn' to indicate the extreme earliness of the morning. In Acts 20:9, it describes a 'deep' sleep, likely meaning a profound or heavy sleep from which Eutychus fell.

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *gʷedʰ- ('to sink, to immerse'). It is a primary adjective in Greek, forming the basis for words like βάθος (G899, 'depth') and βαθύνω ('to deepen'). Its core meaning of physical depth readily extended to metaphorical and temporal realms.

Semantic Range

While not a central theological term, its usage in Luke 24:1 at the resurrection narrative highlights the devotion and urgency of the first witnesses. The 'deep dawn' marks the pivotal moment of discovery, contrasting the darkness of death with the first light of new life and hope.

The phrase 'deep dawn' (ὄρθρου βαθέως) reflects a cultural timekeeping different from modern clock hours. It specifies the period when night is fully over but the sun is not yet up, a time associated with solemn activity, travel, or the start of a vigil.

βάθος (bathos, G899) — The noun form meaning 'depth' or 'profundity'. βυσσός (byssós, G1037) — Often 'the deep', specifically the abyss or sea depths, with more ominous or chaotic connotations.

Word Details

Scripture References