εὔθετος

suitable, fit, useful

Definition

The adjective εὔθετος means 'well-placed,' 'suitable,' or 'fit for a purpose.' It describes something that is in a proper condition or state to be used effectively. In Luke 14:35, it describes salt that has lost its taste and is thus 'fit' for nothing, not even for the manure pile. In a positive agricultural sense in Hebrews 6:7, land that drinks rain and produces a useful crop is deemed 'fit' for cultivation by God. The word also carries a sense of readiness or being properly positioned, as seen in Luke 9:62, where Jesus says that one who looks back after putting his hand to the plow is not 'fit' for the kingdom of God.

Biblical Usage

Εὔθετος is used three times in the New Testament, all in contexts of evaluating fitness or suitability. In Luke 9:62, it describes a person's spiritual readiness for God's kingdom. In Luke 14:35, it is used in a parable about the absolute uselessness of salt that has lost its quality. In Hebrews 6:7, it describes land that is agriculturally suitable and productive, serving as a metaphor for believers who respond to God's blessing. The usage spans narrative (Luke) and exhortation (Hebrews), applying to both people and things.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek prefix εὖ (eu), meaning 'well' or 'good,' and the verb τίθημι (tithēmi), meaning 'to place' or 'to set.' Thus, its core meaning is 'well-placed' or 'well-positioned.' This root idea evolved to signify being in a proper state or condition for a specific use or purpose.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it frames discipleship and spiritual fruitfulness in terms of fitness and usefulness to God. In Luke 9:62, it underscores the total commitment required for the kingdom, contrasting with a divided heart. In Hebrews 6:7, it connects God's blessing (rain) with the expected response of being 'fit' land that bears fruit. It challenges believers to evaluate whether their lives are in a condition suitable for God's purposes, moving beyond mere existence to intentional readiness and productivity.

In the ancient agricultural context, the fitness of land (Hebrews 6:7) or salt (Luke 14:35) was a matter of practical economic survival. Useless salt was proverbial for total worthlessness, and unfit land was a direct threat to livelihood. Jesus and the author of Hebrews use these tangible, everyday concepts to communicate profound spiritual truths about value and preparedness.

χρήσιμος (chrēsimos, G5532) — emphasizes usefulness or serviceability, often of objects. καλός (kalos, G2570) — broad term for 'good,' often morally good or beautiful, not specifically 'fit for a purpose.' ἱκανός (hikanos, G2425) — focuses on sufficiency, competence, or being adequate.

Word Details

Scripture References