ἡδέως (hēdeōs)
hēdeōs
gladly
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb hēdeōs describes an action performed with genuine pleasure or gladness, rooted in the idea of sweetness. It appears only three times in the New Testament, marking moments where characters respond to difficult or unexpected situations with a positive, willing heart rather than reluctance.
In Mark 6:20, King Herod listens to John the Baptist gladly, finding a strange delight in the prophet’s words despite their convicting nature. Similarly, in Mark 12:37, the crowds hear Jesus with pleasure, enjoying his teaching. Paul uses the word in 2 Corinthians 11:19 to express how he accepts their foolishness willingly, showing that this gladness can persist even in frustrating circumstances.
Its connection to sweetness suggests that this is not merely polite compliance, but an internal enjoyment of the experience. Translators typically render it simply as "gladly," capturing the straightforward sense of willing acceptance found in these brief biblical snapshots.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word hēdeōs points to a gladness that is rooted in sweetness. It describes an inner willingness rather than forced compliance. When we encounter difficult truths or challenging people, this word invites us to look for the hidden joy in listening and learning.
Herod heard John gladly despite the convicting nature of the message. The crowds enjoyed Jesus’ teaching with genuine pleasure. Even Paul accepted foolishness willingly, showing that gladness can persist in frustrating circumstances. This suggests our hearts can find delight even when situations are hard.
This sweet willingness transforms how we engage with Scripture and others. It moves us from reluctant duty to eager participation. May your heart grow soft and receptive to God’s voice today.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- gladly.1×
- gladly1×
- Gladly1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἡδέως2×
- ἡδέως.¶1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 6:20
for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. When he heard him, he did many things, and he heard him gladly.
Herod heard John gladly, showing that even convicting truth can find a willing ear.
-
Mark 12:37
Therefore David himself calls him Lord, so how can he be his son?” The common people heard him gladly.
The crowds heard Jesus gladly, highlighting the natural delight people felt in his teaching.
-
II Corinthians 11:19
For you bear with the foolish gladly, being wise.
Paul accepted their foolishness gladly, demonstrating patience rooted in a willing heart.