εὐθύς

straight, immediately

Definition

The Greek word εὐθύς functions primarily as an adjective meaning 'straight' or 'upright,' and as an adverb meaning 'immediately.' In its adjectival sense, it describes a literal, straight path, as in the prophecy to 'make straight the way of the Lord' (John 1:23, quoting Isaiah). It can also describe moral uprightness. As an adverb, it is one of the most common words in the New Testament for denoting immediate sequence, often translated 'at once' or 'immediately,' as seen when the Spirit drives Jesus into the wilderness 'immediately' after his baptism (Mark 1:12).

Biblical Usage

The adverbial sense ('immediately') is by far the most frequent, especially in the fast-paced narrative of Mark's Gospel (e.g., Mark 1:10, 1:18, 1:20). The adjectival sense ('straight' or 'upright') appears primarily in quotations of the Old Testament, particularly from Isaiah 40:3, found in the Gospels (Matthew 3:3, Mark 1:3, Luke 3:4, John 1:23). This shows a clear pattern: narrative uses the temporal sense, while prophetic or sermonic contexts use the spatial/moral sense.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek root εὐθύς, meaning 'straight' or 'direct.' It is related to the verb εὐθύνω (euthynō, G2116), meaning 'to make straight' or 'to guide.' The core idea is directness, without deviation, which naturally extended from describing physical paths to describing moral character and then to temporal sequence without delay.

Semantic Range

This word connects the physical preparation of a road with spiritual preparation for the Messiah, highlighting the call to repentance and removing obstacles to God's coming. The frequent adverbial use, particularly in Mark, creates a sense of urgency and divine purpose in the ministry of Jesus, emphasizing that God's kingdom action unfolds in decisive moments.

In a culture where travel relied on unpaved, winding paths, the call to 'make straight' a road was a powerful metaphor for removing hindrances and enabling direct access. The temporal sense of 'immediately' reflects a narrative style common in ancient Greek literature to propel action, which Mark employs masterfully to convey the rapid and authoritative nature of Jesus's ministry.

εὐθέως (eutheōs, G2112) — A near-identical adverb for 'immediately,' often used interchangeably with the adverbial εὐθύς. ὀρθός (orthos, G3717) — Means 'straight' or 'upright,' but more often in a moral or correct sense than a physical one. ταχύς (tachys, G5035) — Means 'quick' or 'swift,' focusing on speed rather than immediate sequence.

Word Details

Scripture References