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G1021 · Greek · New Testament
βραδύς
Bradys
Adjective
Slow

Definition

The Greek bradys means slow — whether of movement, speech, understanding, or any process. It is used in the New Testament both as a gentle correction and as a surprising compliment.

Usage & Theological Significance

Bradys appears three times in the New Testament. In Luke 24:25, Jesus gently rebukes the Emmaus disciples: 'How slow (bradeis) you are to believe all that the prophets have spoken!' — a post-resurrection call to fuller trust. In James 1:19, believers are exhorted to be 'quick to listen, slow (bradys) to speak and slow (bradys) to become angry' — a wisdom formula for transformed communication. Being bradys to speak and anger is not a weakness but a Spirit-formed virtue. The word invites believers to reverse the natural human pattern: quick to speak, slow to listen.

Key Bible Verses

James 1:19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.
Luke 24:25 He said to them, 'How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken!'
Proverbs 14:29 Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.
Proverbs 17:27 The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.
Psalm 103:8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.

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