ἑτοίμως (hetoimōs)
hetoimōs
readily
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb hetoimōs means "readily" or "willingly," describing an attitude of eager preparedness rather than reluctant compliance. In the New Testament, it appears in only three verses, appearing in Acts 21:13 and 2 Corinthians 12:14, as well as 1 Peter 4:5. The word conveys a sense of promptness and lack of hesitation when responding to a call or duty.
A key usage occurs in Acts 21:13, where Paul declares his readiness to face imprisonment and death for the name of Jesus. Here, the term highlights a steadfast commitment that overrides fear or self-preservation. Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 12:14, Paul notes he is ready to provide for his children, using the word to emphasize his willingness to give without grudging calculation.
This adverb derives from the root hetoimos, meaning "prepared" or "ready." By using the adverbial form, Scripture shifts the focus from a static state of preparation to the active manner in which one acts. It suggests that readiness is not just a mental state but is expressed through immediate and willing action.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hetoimōs describes a heart that responds without hesitation or grumbling. It moves beyond simple agreement to active, eager willingness. When we face difficult calls or demanding duties, this attitude shifts our focus from what we might lose to the purpose behind the action.
In Acts 21:13, Paul uses this spirit to show he is ready for imprisonment and death for Jesus. He does not wait until fear fades; he acts with immediate resolve. This readiness is not reckless but rooted in a deep trust that God’s purpose matters more than personal safety or comfort.
Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 12:14, Paul speaks of his willingness to care for others without keeping score. He seeks the people themselves, not their resources. This kind of readiness frees us from the anxiety of calculation and allows us to serve with a light heart, knowing our efforts are seen and valued.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- ready2×
- readiness1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἑτοίμως3×
Key Verses
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Acts 21:13
Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Paul uses this readiness to show his resolve to face imprisonment and death rather than retreat from his mission.
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II Corinthians 12:14
Behold, this is the third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not be a burden to you; for I seek not your possessions, but you. For the children ought not to save up for the parents, but the parents for the children.
The term highlights Paul's eager willingness to provide for others without keeping a grudging record of costs.
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I Peter 4:5
They will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
Here the word describes God’s prepared state to judge, showing that divine justice is certain and immediate when called for.