εὐθυδρομέω (euthudromeō)
euthudromeō
to sail straight
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb euthudromeō describes a ship sailing in a direct, unswerving line toward its destination. Derived from words meaning "straight" and "to run," it paints a vivid picture of maritime navigation where the captain maintains a steady course without deviation. In the New Testament, this term appears only twice, both within the Book of Acts, to narrate Paul’s journeys.
In Acts 16:11, the text notes that the ship sailed straight from Troas to Samothrace, highlighting the efficiency and clarity of their route. Similarly, Acts 21:3 records them running a straight course from Tyre to Ptolemais. These brief references emphasize the practical reality of ancient sea travel, where weather and currents could easily push a vessel off track, making a "straight course" a notable achievement of skill and favorable conditions.
While the word itself is purely descriptive of physical movement, its rarity in Scripture gives it a specific narrative weight. It underscores the orderly progression of the early church’s expansion, as Paul’s travels are depicted with precise geographical accuracy. Translators typically render this as "sailed straight" or "ran a straight course," preserving the concrete imagery of the original Greek without adding metaphorical layers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The ancient Greek word euthudromeō paints a clear picture of a ship cutting through the water on a direct path, undeviating toward its destination. In Acts 16:11 and Acts 21:3, this term describes Paul’s journeys with striking geographical precision. These accounts remind us that God’s plans often unfold with steady purpose, even when the seas are unpredictable.
For your faith, this word offers a quiet comfort. It suggests that while you may face storms or distractions, the One who guides your life keeps His promises intact. You do not need to force a straight path through chaos; instead, you can trust that God is directing your course with care and intention.
When life feels uncertain, remember that faithfulness is often found in keeping your eyes on the destination rather than worrying about every wave. This steady movement reflects a trust that God’s will is clear and His timing is perfect, leading you safely to where He intends you to be.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- we made a straight course1×
- having run directly1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐθυδρομήσαντες1×
- εὐθυδρομήσαμεν1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 16:11
Setting sail therefore from Troas, we made a straight course to Samothrace, and the day following to Neapolis;
This verse uses the word to highlight the specific and efficient route taken from Troas to Samothrace, emphasizing the clarity of Paul’s mission.