### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proakoúō**, represented by `{{G4257}}`, means **to hear already, i.e. anticipate:--hear before**. This specific term appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting a precise moment of prior hearing. Its meaning is derived from its components, πρό (before) and ἀκούω (to hear).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4257}}` is found in [[Colossians 1:5]], where Paul refers to the **hope** that the believers possess. He specifies that this is a hope "whereof ye **heard before** in the word of the truth of the gospel". The term establishes that the Colossians' understanding and hope are not new but are founded upon the initial proclamation of the gospel message they had previously received. It points to a foundational moment of hearing that serves as an anchor for their faith.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Colossians 1:5]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G1680}}` **elpís** (hope): Defined as an "expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence," this is the direct result of what was previously heard. This hope is described as being for a believer's calling [[Ephesians 1:18]] and is directly linked to Christ himself [[Colossians 1:27]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): This refers to "something said (including the thought)" and is the vehicle for the truth they heard. It is identified as the "word of truth" [[2 Timothy 2:15]] and can refer to the Divine Expression, Jesus Christ [[John 1:1]].
* `{{G225}}` **alḗtheia** (truth): Meaning simply "truth," it qualifies the nature of the gospel message. This truth is not abstract but is embodied in Christ [[John 14:6]] and is the means by which believers are sanctified [[John 17:17]].
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (gospel): Meaning "a good message," this specifies the content of the word they heard before. This message is described as the very "power of God unto salvation" [[Romans 1:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G4257}}` centers on the foundational nature of the apostolic message.
* **The Basis of Hope:** The act of having "heard before" `{{G4257}}` is presented as the direct cause for the believers' **hope** `{{G1680}}`, which is described as being securely "laid up" `{{G606}}` for them in heaven [[Colossians 1:5]]. The past event of hearing secures a future promise.
* **Primacy of the Gospel:** The term underscores that what the Colossians had **heard before** was the definitive message: "the **word** `{{G3056}}` of the **truth** `{{G225}}` of the **gospel** `{{G2098}}`" [[Colossians 1:5]]. This establishes the gospel as the primary and unchanging source of a believer's faith and knowledge.
* **Continuity of Faith:** By reminding the Colossians of what they **heard before**, the text emphasizes that their spiritual life is a continuation of that initial reception of truth. Their current standing is built upon a past, verifiable event of hearing and believing the gospel.
### Summary
In summary, **proakoúō** `{{G4257}}` is a precise term that, despite its single appearance, carries significant weight. It functions to connect the believers' present hope directly to the past event of their hearing the gospel. Its use in [[Colossians 1:5]] confirms that the Christian faith is not built on evolving ideas but on the foundational "word of the truth of the gospel" that was heard from the beginning, a message that brings a hope laid up in heaven.
TRV