### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prín**, represented by `{{G4250}}`, is an adverb meaning **prior** or **sooner**. It appears 14 times in 14 unique verses. Its primary function is to establish a temporal sequence, marking a point in time before which a specific event occurs.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4250}}` is used to frame pivotal moments and declarations. It is employed in prophecy, as when Jesus foretells Peter’s denial, stating it will happen "**before** the cock crow" [[Matthew 26:34]]. It also establishes historical sequence, as when Stephen recounts that God appeared to Abraham in Mesopotamia "**before** he dwelt in Charran" [[Acts 7:2]]. One of its most significant uses is by Jesus to declare his own divine pre-existence: "**Before** Abraham was, I am" [[John 8:58]]. The word is also used in a legal context, outlining the Roman custom not to deliver a man to die "**before** that he which is accused have the accusers face to face" [[Acts 25:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are frequently used with `{{G4250}}` to structure these temporal statements:
* `{{G2228}}` **ḗ** (or; than): This is a primary particle used for distinction or comparison. It often combines with `{{G4250}}` to form the phrase "before that," signaling a condition that must be met first, as seen in the revelation to Simeon that he would not die **before** he had seen the Lord's Christ [[Luke 2:26]].
* `{{G3754}}` **hóti** (that; because): This conjunction is used to introduce the clause that follows a declaration. For example, it is used when Peter remembered Jesus' word **that** "**before** the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice" [[Matthew 26:75]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4250}}` is significant, as it structures key divine assertions.
* **Divine Pre-existence:** The most profound use of `{{G4250}}` is in Christ’s statement, "**Before** Abraham was, I am" [[John 8:58]]. This use establishes Jesus’ eternal nature, existing prior to the patriarch Abraham.
* **Prophetic Certainty:** The word anchors prophetic declarations, demonstrating divine foreknowledge. Jesus tells his disciples future events "**before** it come to pass" so that they might believe [[John 14:29]], and repeatedly uses it to predict the precise timing of Peter's denial ([[Mark 14:30]], [[Luke 22:34]]).
* **Timing of Revelation:** `{{G4250}}` marks the timing of divine encounters. The Holy Ghost revealed to Simeon that he would see the Messiah **before** his death [[Luke 2:26]], and God appeared to Abraham **before** he settled in Charran, initiating his covenant journey [[Acts 7:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4250}}` is more than a simple adverb of time. While it literally means **prior** or **sooner**, it serves as a crucial framing device for some of the most important statements in the New Testament. It is used to structure prophecy, articulate the timing of divine revelation, and, most critically, to assert the eternal pre-existence of Christ. The use of `{{G4250}}` demonstrates how a simple temporal word can convey profound theological truth.
TRV