σπεύδω (speudō)
speudō
to hasten
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb speudō describes the act of moving with urgency or haste. In the New Testament, it appears six times, primarily in the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. It captures a sense of eager acceleration, whether physical movement or intense desire. The word conveys more than simple speed; it implies a focused energy directed toward a specific goal.
Its usage often involves hastening to do something, such as when the shepherds in Luke 2:16 hurry to Bethlehem to see the newborn Jesus. In Acts 22:18, Paul recounts a vision where he is told to "hurry and get out of Jerusalem," highlighting the word’s use for urgent departure. The term also appears in 2 Peter 3:12, where believers are urged to hasten the coming of the day of God, linking physical speed with spiritual eagerness.
Etymologically, speudō is likely an intensified form of a root meaning to perceive or think, suggesting that haste arises from clear understanding. This distinguishes it from mere rushing; it is purposeful movement driven by conviction. Translators typically render it as "hasten" or "make haste," preserving the sense of deliberate urgency found in the original Greek text.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we encounter σπεύδω in Scripture, it points to a purposeful urgency rather than frantic rushing. The shepherds did not wander aimlessly; they moved with focused energy toward the newborn Jesus. This suggests that our spiritual eagerness should always have a clear target, whether it is seeking God’s presence or responding to His call.
In Acts, Paul demonstrates this same disciplined haste, prioritizing his mission despite logistical challenges. He did not let comfort delay obedience. Similarly, Peter encourages believers to live with an eager expectation of Christ’s return, letting that hope shape our daily conduct. This kind of speed comes from conviction, not anxiety.
Your faith journey benefits when you align your actions with what truly matters. Instead of scattering your energy on trivial pursuits, direct your efforts toward eternal realities. Let your life reflect a calm but determined readiness to serve and to wait for the Lord’s promises.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- having hurried3×
- he was hastened1×
- hastening1×
- do make haste1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σπεύσας2×
- ἔσπευδεν1×
- σπεῦσον1×
- σπεύσαντες1×
- σπεύδοντας1×
Key Verses
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Luke 2:16
They came with haste and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.
This verse shows that haste is appropriate when responding to divine revelation, as the shepherds moved quickly to witness the Messiah.
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Luke 19:5
When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and saw him, and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house.”
Jesus uses this command to Zacchaeus to illustrate how divine initiative demands an immediate and joyful response from the believer.
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Acts 20:16
For Paul had determined to sail past Ephesus, that he might not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hastening, if it were possible for him, to be in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost.
Paul’s decision to hasten to Jerusalem highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual missions over personal convenience or safety.
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II Peter 3:12
looking for and earnestly desiring the coming of the day of God, which will cause the burning heavens to be dissolved, and the elements will melt with fervent heat?
Here the word connects physical urgency with spiritual longing, urging believers to actively desire and prepare for the day of God.