### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proginṓskō**, represented by `{{G4267}}`, means **to know beforehand** or to foresee. This term is derived from πρό (before) and γινώσκω (to know). It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying significant weight in both theological and common contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4267}}` describes different types of prior knowledge. In a human context, Paul refers to how the Pharisees **knew** him from the beginning of his life [[Acts 26:5]]. Theologically, it is used to describe God's eternal knowledge. God has not cast away the people He **foreknew** [[Romans 11:2]]. This divine foreknowledge is also the foundation for salvation, as those God **did foreknow**, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son [[Romans 8:29]]. It is used for Christ, who was **foreordained** before the foundation of the world [[1 Peter 1:20]], and as a warning to believers who, **seeing ye know these things before**, should beware of error [[2 Peter 3:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of `{{G4267}}`:
* `{{G4309}}` **proorízō** (to limit in advance, i.e. (figuratively) predetermine): This word is directly linked to foreknowledge, showing that God's predetermination is based on His prior knowledge [[Romans 8:29]].
* `{{G4832}}` **sýmmorphos** (jointly formed, i.e. (figuratively) similar): This reveals the purpose of God's foreknowledge and predestination for believers, which is to be **conformed** to the image of His Son [[Romans 8:29]].
* `{{G683}}` **apōthéomai** (to push off, figuratively, to reject): This term is used to declare that God will not **cast away** His people whom He foreknew, linking His prior knowledge to His covenant faithfulness [[Romans 11:2]].
* `{{G4740}}` **stērigmós** (stability (figuratively)): Believers who have prior knowledge of the dangers of false teaching are called to guard their **stedfastness** from the error of the wicked [[2 Peter 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4267}}` is profound, establishing key doctrines of the Christian faith.
* **Foundation of Predestination:** Foreknowledge is presented as the basis for God's sovereign plan. Those He **foreknew** are then predestined, called, justified, and glorified, forming an unbreakable chain of salvation [[Romans 8:29]].
* **Eternal Plan for Christ:** The term establishes that Christ's role as the manifest savior was not an afterthought but was **foreordained** before the world began, highlighting His eternal nature and centrality to God's plan [[1 Peter 1:20]].
* **Assurance of God's Covenant:** God's foreknowledge provides assurance of His faithfulness to His people. Because He **foreknew** them, He will not ultimately reject or cast them away [[Romans 11:2]].
* **Call to Steadfastness:** For believers, having prior knowledge through the scriptures comes with a responsibility to **beware** and avoid being led away by false teachings, thereby protecting their own steadfastness in the faith [[2 Peter 3:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4267}}` **proginṓskō** extends beyond a simple awareness of future events. While it can describe ordinary human knowledge of the past, its primary theological use defines God's intimate, purposeful, and relational knowledge that exists outside of time. This divine foreknowledge is the very starting point of God's redemptive work, securing the believer's salvation in Christ and guaranteeing God's unbreakable promises to His people. It serves as both a comfort and a call to remain vigilant.
TRV