βραδύνω
I am slow, I delay
Definition
βραδύνω means to be slow, to delay, or to tarry. In the New Testament, it carries the sense of intentional or unintentional slowness in action or fulfillment. In 1 Timothy 3:15, it describes Paul's potential delay in visiting Timothy, implying a postponement of plans. In 2 Peter 3:9, it is used of God, not being slow about His promise of Christ's return, but being patient toward humanity. This shows the word can describe human hesitation or divine forbearance.
Biblical Usage
This verb is used only twice in the New Testament, in two distinct contexts. In 1 Timothy 3:15, it refers to a potential human delay in travel ('in case I am delayed'). In 2 Peter 3:9, it describes the perceived slowness of God's promise ('The Lord is not slow about His promise'). The usage pattern contrasts human circumstance with divine character, moving from a practical to a theological application.
Etymology
Derived from the adjective βραδύς (bradys, G1021), meaning 'slow.' The verb form βραδύνω means 'to be slow' or 'to make slow.' It is a primary verb expressing the quality or action of slowness. Cognates include βραδυπλοέω (to sail slowly) and βραδυτής (slowness).
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant, especially in 2 Peter 3:9, where it directly addresses the problem of God's perceived delay in fulfilling His promise of Christ's return. It clarifies that God's 'slowness' is not indifference or inability, but an expression of His patient mercy, desiring all to repent. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by distinguishing human impatience from divine longsuffering.
In the Greco-Roman world, slowness could be viewed negatively as laziness or incompetence. However, the biblical use, particularly regarding God, subverts this by redefining 'slowness' as purposeful patience—a positive, merciful attribute. This contrasts with a modern view that often equates speed with efficiency and value.
μέλλω (mellō, G3195) — implies intention or necessity about to happen, not just slowness. | ὑστερέω (hystereō, G5302) — to lack, be inferior, or come late, focusing on deficiency or being behind. | χρονίζω (chronizō, G5549) — to spend or delay time, often with a connotation of lingering.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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