### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pórrhō**, represented by `{{G4206}}`, is an adverb derived from πρό that means **forwards**, or **at a distance**. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used to describe both literal physical separation and a more profound metaphorical distance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G4206}}` is used to illustrate a crucial spiritual principle. In both Mark and Matthew, Jesus quotes Esaias to describe hypocrites whose hearts are **far** from God, even as their lips honor Him ([[Mark 7:6]], [[Matthew 15:8]]). This highlights a state of inner alienation despite outward religious observance. In a different context, Luke uses the term literally in a parable about a king who, seeing his enemy is still "a great way **off**," sends a delegation to request terms of peace [[Luke 14:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of distance and proximity:
* `{{G1448}}` **engízō** (to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach): This word provides a direct contrast to `{{G4206}}` in [[Matthew 15:8]], where the people **draweth nigh** with their mouths while their hearts are far away.
* `{{G4242}}` **presbeía** (an embassy): This term is directly linked to `{{G4206}}` in a practical sense. It is the **ambassage** sent to bridge the distance when another party is "a great way off" [[Luke 14:32]].
* `{{G1515}}` **eirḗnē** (peace): This is the desired outcome when dealing with distance. In the parable, the ambassage is sent to secure conditions of **peace** from the approaching king [[Luke 14:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4206}}` is significant, primarily in its metaphorical application.
* **The Condition of the Heart:** The word is used to define a state of spiritual estrangement. God judges the heart's position, and even those who perform religious acts can have a heart that is **far** from Him [[Mark 7:6]].
* **Distance and Reconciliation:** In the parable of the king, being "a great way **off**" is the catalyst for action. It illustrates that great distance, whether literal or spiritual, necessitates a deliberate effort to seek **peace** [[Luke 14:32]].
* **Hypocrisy Defined:** The contrast between drawing near with the lips and being **far** in the heart serves as a biblical definition of hypocrisy. It underscores that proximity to God is a matter of inner sincerity, not outward performance [[Matthew 15:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4206}}` moves beyond a simple measurement of space to describe a critical spiritual state. While it can denote being physically "a great way off," its more powerful use is in diagnosing a heart that is distant and disconnected from God. The word serves as a stark reminder that true worship involves the nearness of the heart, not just the words of the lips.
TRV