εὔκαιρος (eukairos)
eukairos
opportune
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective eukairos describes something that is seasonable, timely, or opportune. It combines the prefix eu, meaning good or well, with kairos, referring to a specific, critical moment rather than just sequential time. This distinction highlights that the word points to the right quality of timing, not merely a date on a calendar.
In Scripture, this term appears in only two verses, yet it carries significant weight. Mark 6:21 uses it to describe the "opportune day" for Herod’s birthday feast, illustrating a moment chosen for social or political advantage. Hebrews 4:16 applies it to the "time of help," suggesting that God’s grace is available precisely when needed most.
The sources note its usage in the Septuagint and other Jewish texts, where it can sometimes refer to festivals or holidays. This broader cultural context reinforces the idea that eukairos marks a designated time for special activity or divine intervention, setting it apart from ordinary days.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word eukairos reminds us that God’s timing is not random but carefully attuned to our deepest needs. In Hebrews 4:16, we are invited to approach the throne of grace with confidence, knowing that help is available at the exact moment we require it. This is not a vague promise but a specific assurance that divine mercy meets us in our critical hours.
Contrast this with Mark 6:21, where Herod seized an "opportune day" for his own pleasure, leading to tragedy. The difference lies in purpose. Human plans often chase fleeting moments of advantage, but God’s grace is always seasonable and reliable. We do not need to calculate the perfect time; we simply need to draw near.
When life feels chaotic or uncertain, remember that you are never too early or too late for God’s help. His provision is perfectly timed for your journey. Rest in the knowledge that the Creator of time holds your present moment securely in His hands, offering grace precisely when you need it most.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- opportune1×
- in time of need1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὔκαιρον1×
- εὐκαίρου1×
Key Verses
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Hebrews 4:16
Let’s therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need.
This verse uses the term to assure believers that divine grace is available specifically at the moment of critical need.
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Mark 6:21
Then a convenient day came when Herod on his birthday made a supper for his nobles, the high officers, and the chief men of Galilee.
Here the word describes a socially convenient day chosen by Herod, highlighting how human timing often serves self-interest rather than truth.