προθυμία (prothumia)
prothumia
eagerness
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun prothumia describes a state of eager willingness or prompt readiness. It combines the prefix pro- ("before") with thymos ("spirit" or "heart"), suggesting an inclination that arises naturally and quickly from within. In the New Testament, this word appears only five times, primarily in Acts and Paul’s letters to the Corinthians.
Paul uses it to commend believers for their promptness in giving and their readiness to complete good works (2 Corinthians 8:11-12; 9:2). It is not merely passive agreement but an active, spirited desire to act. The Bereans are also described as receiving the message with prothumia, indicating they were open and eager to examine what was taught (Acts 17:11).
Translators often render it as "eagerness" or "willingness." Unlike mere obligation, prothumia implies a positive disposition of the heart. It captures the spirit of someone who is not reluctant but keen to participate in God’s purposes.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word prothumia describes a heart that is eager and willing to act. It comes from roots meaning 'before' and 'heart,' suggesting a natural inclination that arises quickly from within. This is not just passive agreement but an active desire to participate in God's work. When we approach our faith with this spirit, we show a genuine love for what God has called us to do.
In Acts 17:11, the Bereans are praised for receiving the message with eagerness. They did not just accept what they were told; they examined the Scriptures daily to see if it was true. This shows that true readiness involves both openness and careful thought. We can learn from their example by being quick to listen but also diligent in understanding.
Paul also uses this word when encouraging the Corinthians to complete their generous giving (2 Corinthians 8:11-12). He reminds them that God accepts what we give based on our ability, not just the amount. This eagerness is a gift that helps us serve others and glorify God. May you find joy in being ready to do good works, trusting that your willingness pleases Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- readiness5×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- προθυμίαν2×
- προθυμία2×
- προθυμίας1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 17:11
Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.
This verse highlights how eagerness involves actively examining Scripture rather than passively accepting teaching.
-
II Corinthians 8:11
But now complete the doing also, that as there was the readiness to be willing, so there may be the completion also out of your ability.
Paul urges the believers to move from initial willingness to actual completion of their generous act.
-
II Corinthians 9:2
for I know your readiness, of which I boast on your behalf to those of Macedonia, that Achaia has been prepared for the past year. Your zeal has stirred up very many of them.
Paul boasts about their readiness because it has inspired many others in Macedonia to give generously.