εὐκαίρως (eukairōs)
eukairōs
well timed
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb eukairōs describes an action taken at the right moment, capturing the sense of being "well-timed" or "opportunely." It suggests a favorable alignment of circumstances rather than mere speed. The word combines eu ("good") and kairos ("the right time"), emphasizing that the timing itself is appropriate for the task at hand.
In the New Testament, this term appears only twice, both highlighting critical moments in Jesus’ ministry. In Mark 14:11, Judas approaches the chief priests eukairōs, seizing a favorable opportunity to betray Jesus. Similarly, 2 Timothy 4:2 encourages believers to preach the word eukairōs, implying a readiness to speak when the moment is right.
Its opposite, akairōs ("untimely"), underscores the contrast between well-timed and ill-timed actions. The sources note its use in Sirach 18:22 in the Septuagint, where it speaks of acting seasonably. This lexical pairing shows that timing is a significant factor in biblical ethics.
Translators typically render eukairōs as "seasonably" or "opportunely," though these English words can feel static. The Greek carries a dynamic sense of seizing the moment. It reminds readers that spiritual actions require not just willingness but discernment regarding when to act.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word eukairōs reminds us that faithfulness is not just about willingness, but about discernment. It combines the ideas of 'good' and 'right time,' suggesting that our actions carry weight when they align with God’s timing rather than our own urgency. This concept encourages patience and attentiveness to the moments God places before us.
In Mark 14:11, Judas uses this same idea for betrayal, seizing a convenient moment to hand Jesus over. The contrast is striking: while evil seeks opportunity for harm, believers are called to use that same sharp awareness of time for good. We are invited to watch for the openings God provides to speak truth and show love.
Paul echoes this in 2 Timothy 4:2, urging Timothy to preach the word 'in season and out of season.' This means staying ready regardless of whether the moment feels convenient or difficult. It is a call to spiritual alertness, trusting that every interaction is an opportunity to reflect Christ’s character when we choose to act with wisdom and grace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- in season1×
- conveniently1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐκαίρως2×
Key Verses
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Mark 14:11
They, when they heard it, were glad, and promised to give him money. He sought how he might conveniently deliver him.
This verse shows the word used negatively, describing Judas seizing a convenient moment for betrayal, which highlights how timing can be misused.
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II Timothy 4:2
preach the word; be urgent in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort with all patience and teaching.
Here Paul commands believers to preach 'in season,' linking the concept of right timing with persistent faithfulness in sharing the gospel.