κατευθύνω

From the study of 2 Thessalonians 3:5

Range of meaning

To make straight, to level a road, to steer or guide something straight to a destination, to bring to a good end. It is built from euthys, 'straight', plus a prefix that strengthens it.

Against the English

'Direct' (KJV, BSB, WEB) is accurate but flat. In modern English it can sound like giving instructions. The Greek picture is of the Lord clearing and straightening the path itself, not just pointing the way.

Used elsewhere in the period

In the Greek Old Testament (the Septuagint) the verb often translates the Hebrew idiom for 'setting' or 'preparing' the heart (hekhin lev). David prays 'direct their heart toward you' (1 Chr 29:18). Kings are judged by whether they 'set their heart to seek God' (2 Chr 12:14; 19:3; 20:33). Psalms and Proverbs use it of God making a person's way straight (e.g. Prov 16:9 LXX). Paul uses the same verb in another wish-prayer to this church: 'may our God and Father and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you' (1 Thess 3:11).

From the study of 1 Thessalonians 3:11

Range of meaning

To make straight, to level or clear a path. By extension: to steer, guide, or bring something to a successful outcome. Built from εὐθύς ('straight') with the strengthening prefix κατα-. It is used of roads, of steering ships, and of God making a person's steps succeed.

Against the English

Most versions say 'direct' (KJV, ESV, NASB, BSB, WEB). To modern ears that can sound like 'give directions' or 'tell us which way to go'. NIV's 'clear the way for us to come to you' is closer to the point. Paul knows exactly where he wants to go. What he needs is for the blocked road to be opened.

How it drifted

'Direct' has moved toward meaning 'instruct' or 'point toward'. The older English sense, 'make straight', is mostly lost.

Used elsewhere in the period

In the Greek Old Testament (LXX) the verb usually translates Hebrew roots meaning 'to make firm or straight' (kûn, yāšar). Psalm 5:9 LXX: 'make straight your way before me'. Psalm 36:23 LXX (37:23 in English Bibles): 'a person's steps are made straight by the Lord'. Judith 12:8: Judith prays to God 'to direct her way' before a dangerous mission. Paul uses the same optative form again in 2 Thess 3:5 ('may the Lord direct your hearts'), where it is used figuratively.

From the study of Luke 1:79

Range of meaning

To make straight, to lead or direct straight to a goal, to keep on course. It is built on 'euthus' (straight).

Against the English

'Guide' (all major versions) is accurate. It may sound like gentle advice; the Greek is more about setting something on a straight, true line.

Used elsewhere in the period

Greek Old Testament: 'he set my feet upon a rock and directed (katēuthunen) my steps' (Ps 40:2); 'O that my ways may be directed to keep your statutes' (Ps 119:5); Prov 4:26 (a straight path for the feet). In the NT: 'may our God... direct our way to you' (1 Thess 3:11); 'may the Lord direct your hearts' (2 Thess 3:5).