### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prógnōsis**, represented by `{{G4268}}`, is a term for **forethought** or **foreknowledge**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, indicating its specific and significant application. Derived from προγινώσκω, the word conveys the concept of advance knowledge or a preconceived plan.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4268}}` is exclusively tied to the divine mind of God. It is used to explain that believers are "Elect according to the **foreknowledge** of God the Father" [[1 Peter 1:2]], directly linking God's foreknowledge to the calling of His people. In the book of Acts, it is stated that Jesus was delivered by the "determinate counsel and **foreknowledge** of God" [[Acts 2:23]], connecting the term to God's sovereign and established plan for redemption.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4268}}` within its scriptural context:
* `{{G1012}}` **boulḗ** (counsel): This word for "volition" or "purpose" is used alongside **prógnōsis** in [[Acts 2:23]], emphasizing that God's foreknowledge is part of His deliberate and active will.
* `{{G1588}}` **eklektós** (elect): This term for "chosen" or "select" is directly associated with foreknowledge in [[1 Peter 1:2]], defining believers as those chosen according to God's purpose.
* `{{G3724}}` **horízō** (to... determine): Paired with counsel and foreknowledge in [[Acts 2:23]], this word means to "appoint, decree, specify," showing that God's foreknowledge is part of a fixed and determined plan.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4268}}` is centered on the nature of God's sovereignty and purpose.
* **Active and Purposeful Knowledge:** The pairing of **prógnōsis** with "determinate counsel" [[Acts 2:23]] demonstrates that God's foreknowledge is not passive but an active component of His decreed will.
* **Foundation of Election:** In [[1 Peter 1:2]], the **foreknowledge** of God is presented as the basis upon which believers are considered "Elect," tying divine knowledge directly to salvation and identity.
* **Sovereignty in Redemption:** Both uses of the word are set in the context of God's redemptive work, underscoring that the crucifixion of Christ and the sanctification of believers occur according to His divine forethought.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4268}}` provides a crucial insight into the nature of God's omniscience. Though used sparingly, it establishes that God's foreknowledge is not mere observation of future events but is intrinsically linked to His purposeful will, His "determinate counsel" [[Acts 2:23]], and His selection of the "Elect" [[1 Peter 1:2]]. It portrays a God whose knowledge is the very foundation of His sovereign plan for humanity.