Lexical Summary proseggizó: To approach, to draw near Original Word: προσεγγίζω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance come nigh. From pros and eggizo; to approach near -- come nigh. see GREEK pros see GREEK eggizo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originlate or variant reading for prospheró, q.v. Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4331: προσεγγίζωπροσεγγίζω: 1 aorist infinitive προσεγγίσαι; to approach unto (πρός, IV. 1): with the dative of a person (cf. Winer's Grammar, § 52, 4, 14), Mark 2:4 (where T Tr marginal reading WH προσενέγκαι). (The Sept.; Polybius, Diodorus, Lucian). Topical Lexicon Overview Strong’s Greek 4331 (προσεγγίζω, prosengízō) pictures an intentional closing of distance, whether physical, relational, or spiritual. The verb carries the sense of moving so near that one stands within immediate reach, a nuance that lays the foundation for rich covenant, worship, and discipleship themes. Old Testament (Septuagint) Usage In the Septuagint the word frequently describes people or objects crossing a threshold of sacred proximity. These texts reveal two complementary dimensions: (1) reverent restriction—only the properly sanctioned may proceed, and (2) gracious invitation—at God’s initiative worshipers are summoned to draw near. Patterns of Covenant Approach 1. Priesthood and sacrifice: prosengízō underscores the careful steps required to enter sanctuary space (Leviticus 21:17–23; Ezekiel 44:13). Conceptual Parallels in the New Testament Although the exact form προσεγγίζω is absent from the Greek New Testament, its theological trajectory converges with passages that employ cognate verbs: In each verse the covenant dynamic of invitation and nearness is fulfilled in Christ, our great High Priest, making safe what was once perilous. Historical and Cultural Background Temple architecture, priestly vestments, and purity laws framed the ancient understanding of proximity to deity. Stepping closer implied escalating holiness and escalating danger. To “approach” without proper mediation threatened death (Leviticus 16:1–2). Against this backdrop, Jesus’ atoning work removes the veil, turning fearful approach into filial access. Related Words and Distinctions • 4334 προσέρχομαι highlights the act of coming toward, often used of disciples approaching Jesus. Practical Ministry Insights 1. Worship planning: liturgies that progress from adoration to confession to communion mirror the biblical flow of “drawing near.” Devotional Implications Personal prayer can be shaped by meditating on the movement of prosengízō: “Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22). The ancient call to approach the Lord finds its ultimate fulfillment in the present ministry of Jesus Christ, who ever lives to make intercession and welcomes all who come. Forms and Transliterations προσεγγιεί προσεγγίζων προσεγγίσαι προσεγγίσας προσήγγιζον προσήγγισαν προσήγγισας προσήγγισεLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance προσεδέξασθε — 1 Occ.προσδοκᾷ — 2 Occ. προσδοκῶμεν — 4 Occ. προσδοκῶν — 3 Occ. προσδοκῶντας — 1 Occ. προσδοκῶντες — 3 Occ. προσδοκώντων — 1 Occ. Προσδοκῶντος — 1 Occ. προσεδόκων — 1 Occ. προσδοκίας — 2 Occ. παρεδρεύοντες — 1 Occ. προσηργάσατο — 1 Occ. προσῆλθαν — 2 Occ. προσῆλθεν — 8 Occ. προσῆλθον — 15 Occ. προσήρχοντο — 1 Occ. προσεληλύθατε — 2 Occ. Πρόσελθε — 1 Occ. προσελθὼν — 23 Occ. προσελθόντες — 17 Occ. |