πρόθυμος (prothumos)
prothumos
eager
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective prothumos describes a state of being eager, ready, or willing to act. It combines the prefix pro-, meaning "before," with thymos, relating to spirit or desire. This etymology suggests an enthusiasm that is already present and prepared before a situation demands it. In the Gospels, Jesus uses this word to describe a readiness of spirit that must be paired with weakness of flesh, noting in Matthew 26:41 and Mark 14:38 that while the disciples were eager, their physical bodies were not up to the task.
Paul employs the term differently in Romans 1:15. Here he writes about his eagerness to preach the gospel in Rome. The neuter form can function as a noun meaning "eagerness" or "willingness." This usage highlights that prothumos is not just a fleeting feeling but a settled disposition of the heart toward a specific goal. It implies a proactive attitude rather than a passive response.
Translators typically render this word as "eager" or "willing." The distinction lies in its active nature; it is not merely permission to act, but a genuine desire to do so. This concept appears in the Septuagint as well, often translating Hebrew terms for noble or prompt spirits. The consistent thread across these texts is a heart that is fully committed and prepared.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word prothumos describes a spirit that is already prepared and ready before a situation even arises. It combines the idea of being 'before' with a deep desire or spirit, suggesting an enthusiasm that is settled in the heart rather than just a fleeting emotion. This readiness is not passive; it is a proactive stance toward what matters most to you.
Jesus used this term to highlight a common human struggle: the disciples were genuinely eager to stand by Him, yet their physical bodies lacked the strength to sustain that commitment. Their spirit was willing, but they were tired. This reminds us that our best intentions are valuable, even when we feel too weak to act on them immediately.
Paul also used this word to show his deep desire to share the Good News in Rome. He did not wait for an invitation; his heart was already set toward his mission. We can learn from both examples. When we feel overwhelmed by our limitations, we can trust that God sees our eager hearts. He meets us where we are, strengthening our spirit even when our flesh is weak.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- readiness1×
- [is] willing,1×
- [is] willing1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πρόθυμον2×
- πρόθυμον,1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 26:41
Watch and pray, that you don’t enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Jesus uses this word to acknowledge the disciples' genuine desire while pointing out their physical exhaustion.
-
Mark 14:38
Watch and pray, that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
This parallel account reinforces the tension between spiritual readiness and human frailty in the face of trial.
-
Romans 1:15
So as much as is in me, I am eager to preach the Good News to you also who are in Rome.
Paul uses the neuter form to describe his settled, proactive disposition toward preaching the gospel to new audiences.