### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb **pérysi**, represented by `{{G4070}}`, serves as a specific time marker for **a year ago** or **last year**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. In both instances, it is used by the Apostle Paul to reference a commitment and a state of readiness that had begun in the preceding year, establishing a baseline for his encouragement to the Corinthian church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both uses of `{{G4070}}` are found in the context of Paul’s instructions regarding a collection for the believers in Jerusalem. He reminds the Corinthians that their desire to contribute was not new, but had begun "**a year ago**" [[2 Corinthians 8:10]]. Here, the term establishes the origin point of their good intentions. Paul then uses this fact to boast to the Macedonians, stating that "Achaia was ready **a year ago**" [[2 Corinthians 9:2]]. This reference to their past eagerness serves as both a commendation and a gentle exhortation for them to complete what they had started with such zeal.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G4070}}` is enriched by several related words that describe the Corinthians' initial attitude:
* `{{G4288}}` **prothymía** (forwardness of mind, readiness of mind): This noun, meaning predisposition or alacrity, describes the eager mindset Paul knew the Corinthians possessed. He boasts about their **forwardness of your mind** in relation to their readiness a year prior [[2 Corinthians 9:2]].
* `{{G3903}}` **paraskeuázō** (prepare self, be ready): This verb signifies getting ready or being furnished. Paul's boast was that Achaia **was ready** a year ago, linking their past state directly to a condition of preparedness [[2 Corinthians 9:2]].
* `{{G2744}}` **kaucháomai** (boast, glory, joy): This word describes Paul's action of vaunting. The Corinthians' willingness from "**a year ago**" was so notable that it became the foundation for the **boast** he made on their behalf [[2 Corinthians 9:2]].
* `{{G4278}}` **proenárchomai** (to commence already): This verb highlights that the Corinthians had already started this effort. Paul advises them based on the fact that they had **begun before**, a year ago [[2 Corinthians 8:10]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4070}}` carries subtle but important theological weight concerning Christian commitment.
* **Following Through on Intent:** The reference to "**a year ago**" serves as a call to action. Paul notes that the Corinthians were the first not only **to do** `{{G4160}}`, but also **to be forward** `{{G2309}}` in this matter, emphasizing the need to bring past willingness to its proper fulfillment [[2 Corinthians 8:10]].
* **The Power of a Faithful Example:** The readiness of the church in Achaia from the previous year was not a private matter. Their **zeal** `{{G2205}}` became an influential example that **hath provoked** `{{G2042}}` many others, demonstrating that a past commitment can inspire faithfulness in the present [[2 Corinthians 9:2]].
* **The Basis for Encouragement:** By pointing to their state "**a year ago**," Paul is not shaming them but reminding them of their own best intentions. This past zeal becomes the foundation upon which he builds his appeal, encouraging them to be who they had already resolved to be.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4070}}` **pérysi** is far more than a simple adverb of time. In its two biblical appearances, it functions as a powerful rhetorical tool for the Apostle Paul. It anchors his appeal in the Corinthians' own prior history of zeal and willingness, reminding them of a commitment made "**a year ago**." The word illustrates a key principle: that past spiritual fervor should be the foundation for present and future action, and that one's faithfulness can serve as an enduring example to provoke others toward good works.
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