εὔθετος (euthetos)
euthetos
suitable
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek adjective euthetos describes something that is well-placed or ready for use. It combines a prefix meaning "well" with a root related to placing or setting. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, often referring to objects or conditions that are fit for a specific purpose.
In Luke 14:35 and Hebrews 6:7, the word describes land or soil. The sources note it means "fit" or "useful," particularly when paired with a dative noun indicating the intended use. This usage highlights practical value rather than aesthetic beauty; the earth is valued for its capacity to produce.
A distinct application occurs in Luke 9:62, where Jesus speaks of someone "putting their hand to the plow." Here, euthetos describes a person who is ready and suited for the task. The term suggests a state of preparedness and alignment with a specific duty, emphasizing functional readiness over abstract suitability.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word euthetos describes something well-placed or ready for use. It combines 'well' with a root meaning to set or place. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, often referring to objects or conditions fit for a specific purpose. The sources note it means 'fit' or 'useful,' particularly when paired with a dative noun indicating intended use. This usage highlights practical value rather than aesthetic beauty; the earth is valued for its capacity to produce.
A distinct application occurs in Luke 9:62, where Jesus speaks of someone putting their hand to the plow. Here, euthetos describes a person who is ready and suited for the task. The term suggests a state of preparedness and alignment with a specific duty, emphasizing functional readiness over abstract suitability. It invites us to consider how we position ourselves for God's work.
When we align our hearts with His purposes, we become fit for His Kingdom. This readiness is not about perfection but about direction and willingness. May you find peace in knowing that God values your faithful presence and your desire to serve Him well in every season of life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- useful1×
- suitable1×
- fit1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὔθετός1×
- εὔθετόν1×
- εὔθετον1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 9:62
But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for God’s Kingdom.”
This verse uses the word to describe a person's readiness for discipleship, emphasizing forward focus rather than looking back.
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Hebrews 6:7
For the land which has drunk the rain that comes often on it and produces a crop suitable for them for whose sake it is also tilled, receives blessing from God;
Here the term highlights the land's productive capacity, showing how God blesses what is fit for His intended purpose.
-
Luke 14:35
It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile. It is thrown out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
The word illustrates the loss of utility when something becomes unfit for its original design, serving as a warning against spiritual barrenness.