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G1486 · Greek · New Testament
ἔθω
Ethō
Verb
To be accustomed, to be in the habit

Definition

The Greek verb ethō means to be accustomed to or in the habit of doing something. It refers to established custom, regular practice, or ingrained habit. In the New Testament it appears primarily in Luke and Acts, describing the customs of Jesus, His parents, and early Jewish practice.

Usage & Theological Significance

Luke uses ethō to describe Jesus going to the synagogue 'as was his custom' (Luke 4:16) — revealing that Jesus deliberately maintained regular patterns of worship throughout His earthly ministry. This underscores the importance of habitual spiritual practice. The same word describes Pilate's Passover custom of releasing a prisoner, and the early Jerusalem community's patterns of prayer — demonstrating that ethō (habit, custom) shapes communities as much as individuals.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 4:16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom (ethō), he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day.
Matthew 27:15 Now at the feast the governor was accustomed (ethō) to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted.
Luke 2:27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law.
Acts 17:2 And Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures.
Hebrews 10:25 Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.

Related Words

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