### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prâgma**, represented by `{{G4229}}`, is derived from πράσσω and refers to a **deed**, an **affair**, or by extension, an **object**. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries a broad meaning, encompassing concepts such as a tangible **thing**, a **business** affair, a legal **matter**, or a **work** that has been done.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4229}}` is applied to a wide range of situations. It can refer to the foundational events of the Christian faith, which many have "taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of" [[Luke 1:1]]. In a legal sense, it describes a **matter** of dispute that believers should not take before the unjust [[1 Corinthians 6:1]]. The word is also used to describe the negative consequences of a sinful heart, such as the "evil **work**" that arises from envying and strife [[James 3:16]], or the deceitful **thing** Ananias conceived in his heart [[Acts 5:4]]. In contrast, it can denote a positive **business** where assistance is to be given to a fellow believer [[Romans 16:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and nature of the **prâgma** being discussed:
* `{{G1650}}` **élenchos** (proof, conviction): This word is used to describe faith itself as the **evidence** of **things** (prâgma) that are not seen, giving substance to unseen realities [[Hebrews 11:1]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (to distinguish, i.e. decide): This term is used for going to **law** or to **judge**, and it is set in contrast to how believers should handle a **matter** (prâgma) among themselves, which is not before the unjust [[1 Corinthians 6:1]].
* `{{G5337}}` **phaûlos** ("foul" or "flawy"): This describes the quality of a **work** (prâgma), specifically the **evil** work that is present where there is confusion and strife [[James 3:16]].
* `{{G5233}}` **hyperbaínō** (to transcend, i.e. (figuratively) to overreach): This action is forbidden in any **matter** (prâgma) with a brother, warning against the act to **go beyond** proper boundaries and defraud someone [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4229}}` is seen in its application to faith, morality, and divine reality.
* **Objects of Faith:** The word is crucial for understanding the nature of faith. It represents the unseen spiritual realities, the heavenly **things** of which the law is only a **shadow** [[Hebrews 10:1]] and the **things** for which faith is the **evidence** [[Hebrews 11:1]].
* **Ethical and Communal Conduct:** `{{G4229}}` defines the tangible deeds and affairs that reflect one's character. Believers are warned against defrauding a brother in any **matter** [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]], and are shown that envy leads to "every evil **work**" [[James 3:16]]. Conversely, it applies to positive community interactions, such as assisting a sister in her **business** [[Romans 16:2]].
* **Divine Reality:** `{{G4229}}` points to realities established by God's unchanging nature. The "two immutable **things**" in which it is impossible for God to lie provide a strong consolation and hope for believers [[Hebrews 6:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4229}}` is far more than a simple word for an object. It is a versatile term that links abstract spiritual realities to concrete, tangible actions and affairs. From the unseen **things** of faith [[Hebrews 11:1]] to a legal **matter** between believers [[1 Corinthians 6:1]] or an evil **work** born of strife [[James 3:16]], **prâgma** consistently refers to something of substance and consequence. It illustrates how belief, character, and action are inseparably connected in the biblical worldview.
TRV