ὑγρός

moist, green, full of sap

Definition

The Greek adjective ὑγρός primarily means 'moist' or 'wet,' describing something containing liquid or sap. In a botanical sense, it extends to mean 'green' or 'fresh,' referring to living wood that is full of moisture and vitality, as opposed to dry, dead wood. This is its sole biblical usage in Luke 23:31, where Jesus uses the metaphor of 'green wood' versus 'dry wood' to illustrate a spiritual principle. The word can also imply flexibility or pliability in non-biblical Greek, but this sense is not directly attested in Scripture.

Biblical Usage

ὑγρός is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 23:31. Here, Jesus employs it proverbially: 'For if they do these things in the green wood (ἐν τῷ ὑγρῷ ξύλῳ), what will be done in the dry?' The context is His journey to the cross, addressing the mourning women of Jerusalem. The word is used metaphorically to contrast a time of relative life and favor ('green wood') with a coming time of judgment and desolation ('dry wood').

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *wegʷ- meaning 'wet' or 'moist.' It is related to the Greek noun ὑγρότης (hygrotes), meaning 'moisture' or 'liquid.' The word's core meaning of 'wetness' is ancient and stable, with its application to 'green' wood being a natural extension, as living plant material is characterized by its internal sap and moisture.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, ὑγρός carries significant theological weight in its context. In Luke 23:31, the metaphor underscores the severity of God's coming judgment. If the Romans would crucify the innocent Messiah (the 'green wood,' a time of grace), the destruction awaiting a spiritually dead and rebellious Jerusalem (the 'dry wood') would be far more terrible. It highlights the themes of divine justice, the consequences of rejecting Christ, and the contrast between life in Him and spiritual barrenness apart from Him.

In the ancient agrarian world, the distinction between 'green' and 'dry' wood was practically understood. Green (ὑγρός) wood is difficult to ignite and burns poorly, while dry wood catches fire easily and burns fiercely. Jesus' audience would instantly grasp this physical reality, making the spiritual analogy powerfully clear: if suffering occurs in a time of life and vitality, how much worse will it be in a time of spiritual deadness and judgment.

χλωρός (chlōros, G5515) — emphasizes the color 'green' or 'pale,' often for vegetation (e.g., Revelation 8:7), while ὑγρός focuses on the internal quality of being moist or sappy.

Word Details

Scripture References