βραδύς (bradus)
bradus
slow
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek adjective bradus simply means "slow." In the New Testament, it appears only twice, yet each instance applies the word to human perception rather than physical speed. James 1:19 uses the phrase "slow to speak," advising believers to listen carefully before responding. This usage frames speech not just as a habit, but as a reaction that requires deliberate pacing.
The second occurrence in Luke 24:25 shifts the meaning from speech to understanding. Jesus calls the disciples on the road to Emmaus "slow of heart" to believe the news of his resurrection. Here, bradus describes a dullness or slowness in apprehending spiritual truth. The word suggests that their minds were not actively processing the significance of the events they had just witnessed.
While the etymology is uncertain, the consistent biblical usage highlights a gap between hearing and comprehending. Whether referring to words spoken or truths believed, bradus points to a hesitation in engagement. It serves as a gentle reminder that spiritual insight often requires more than just hearing; it demands an attentive and responsive heart.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word bradus reminds us that spiritual growth often requires patience with our own minds. In Luke 24:25, Jesus calls the disciples "slow of heart to believe," highlighting how easily we can miss the significance of God's work even when it is right in front of us. This slowness is not a moral failure but a human tendency that invites grace rather than condemnation.
James 1:19 applies this same concept to our speech, urging believers to be "slow to speak." This advice encourages a pause between hearing and responding, allowing space for wisdom to guide our words. By slowing down, we create room for the Holy Spirit to shape our reactions, turning impulsive responses into thoughtful engagement.
Ultimately, this word points to the need for attentive hearts. Whether in listening or speaking, taking time reflects a desire to truly understand God’s truth and others’ needs. It is an invitation to cultivate patience, trusting that God works steadily in our lives even when progress feels gradual.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- slow3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βραδὺς2×
- βραδεῖς1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 24:25
He said to them, “Foolish people, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!
Jesus uses this term to describe the disciples' hesitation in accepting the prophetic witness of His resurrection, emphasizing a spiritual dullness rather than intellectual inability.
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James 1:19
So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger;
The apostle pairs this word with "swift to hear" to establish a balanced rhythm of listening before speaking, highlighting the importance of restraint in communication.