εὐθύς (euthus)
euthus
Straight
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The word euthus carries a dual sense of physical straightness and temporal immediacy. As an adjective, it describes something direct or upright, such as the "straight path" mentioned in Acts 13:10 or the sincere heart required in Acts 8:21. This literal meaning of being without deviation informs its more common adverbial use.
In narrative contexts, especially in Mark’s Gospel where it appears over forty times, euthus signals that an action follows instantly. It conveys a sense of urgency and directness, as when Jesus heals immediately or disciples respond at once. The term bridges the gap between a straight line and immediate time, suggesting that what is next happens without delay or detour.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word euthus often bridges the gap between a physical path and immediate action. When used in the Gospels, it signals that Jesus’ ministry moves with urgent purpose. Disciples do not hesitate; healings happen without delay. This immediacy invites us to respond to God’s call with similar directness, setting aside distractions that slow our spiritual progress.
Yet euthus also describes a moral quality: a heart that is 'straight' or sincere before God. In Acts, Peter warns Simon the magician that his heart must not be divided. True faith requires integrity, not just quick reactions. We are invited to align our lives with truth, ensuring our actions match our beliefs.
This dual meaning reminds us that following Christ involves both speed and sincerity. We act quickly when God leads, but we also walk straight paths of honesty and love. May your life reflect this balance, moving forward in faith with a clear conscience and an open heart.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- straight5×
- upright?1×
- right1×
- Straight1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐθείας3×
- εὐθεῖαν2×
- εὐθεῖα1×
- εὐθείας;1×
- εὐθείαν1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 1:3
the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord! Make his paths straight!’”
This verse quotes Isaiah to show that preparing the way for the Lord requires removing obstacles, making the path straight for His arrival.
-
Acts 9:11
The Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judah for one named Saul, a man of Tarsus. For behold, he is praying,
The reference to 'Straight' street provides a concrete location where Saul encounters the risen Christ, linking physical geography with spiritual transformation.
-
Acts 8:21
You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart isn’t right before God.
Peter uses the concept of a 'right' or straight heart to diagnose Simon’s inner motives, emphasizing that external actions must stem from genuine faith.