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Greek · Strong's G4374

προσφέρω

prosphérō (pros-FEH-roh)

verb

To bring to or toward, to offer, or to present; often used in the context of offerings to God or bringing people to Jesus.

Prosphero, a Greek verb, carries the core meaning of "to bring to" or "to offer." Its semantic range extends to presenting something or someone before another. In the New Testament, this word frequently appears in two primary contexts: bringing people to Jesus for healing or instruction, and offering sacrifices or gifts to God. The idea of movement towards a recipient is central, whether it's a physical object, a person, or a spiritual offering. This reflects the common practice of presenting items or individuals to those in authority or those capable of providing a benefit. The term highlights the act of making something available or accessible to another, often with an intention of benefit or devotion. The theological weight of prosphero is significant, particularly in passages dealing with worship and atonement. It underscores the concept of humanity actively engaging with the divine through presentations, whether of their needs, their devotion, or their means of reconciliation. This active "bringing" or "offering" is a key element in understanding New Testament expressions of faith and religious observance. The term can be seen in both practical, everyday scenarios and in deeply theological contexts, demonstrating its versatility in conveying actions of presentation and offering.

Common English renderings

  • bring
  • offer
  • present
  • deal with

Key verses

"And the report of him went forth into all Syria: and they brought unto him all that were sick, holden with divers diseases and torments, possessed with demons, and epileptic, and palsied; and he healed them."

Matthew 4:24
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"For every high priest, being taken from among men, is appointed for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:"

Hebrews 5:1
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"Show me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a denarius."

Matthew 22:19
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"how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish unto God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?"

Hebrews 9:14
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"If therefore thou art offering thy gift at the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee,"

Matthew 5:23
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