### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prógonos**, represented by `{{G4269}}`, serves as a term for an **ancestor** or **parent**. Derived from προγίνομαι, its base definition is an ancestor, (grand-)parent, or forefather. It appears only 2 times in 2 verses, but these occurrences highlight its significance in the context of both familial duty and spiritual heritage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4269}}` appears in two distinct but related contexts. It is used to define the direct object of familial responsibility, instructing children and nephews to **requite** their **parents** [[1 Timothy 5:4]], establishing a principle of care within the family unit. The word is also used by Paul to establish his own spiritual lineage, stating that he serves God from his **forefathers** [[2 Timothy 1:3]], connecting his personal faith to a legacy passed down through generations.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of relationships involving ancestors and parents:
* `{{G5043}}` **téknon** (a child, daughter, son): This word identifies the direct descendants who have the primary responsibility to care for their parents and show them piety [[1 Timothy 5:4]].
* `{{G1549}}` **ékgonon** (grandchild): Used alongside `{{G5043}}`, this term expands the family responsibility to include grandchildren, emphasizing a multigenerational duty of care toward one's progonos [[1 Timothy 5:4]].
* `{{G2151}}` **eusebéō** (to be pious, i.e. (towards God) to worship, or (towards parents) to respect): This action is explicitly linked to `{{G4269}}`, framing the act of requiting parents as a form of piety [[1 Timothy 5:4]].
* `{{G3000}}` **latreúō** (to minister (to God), i.e. render religious homage): Paul uses this word to describe the service he renders to God, which he inherited from his forefathers `{{G4269}}`, linking generational heritage to active worship [[2 Timothy 1:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4269}}` is demonstrated in how it connects family structure to divine principles.
* **Familial Piety:** The act of caring for one's parents `{{G4269}}` is described as an act to "shew piety" that is "good and acceptable before God" [[1 Timothy 5:4]], elevating family duty to a spiritual practice.
* **Spiritual Inheritance:** The term is used to establish a continuity of faith. Paul links his service to God directly to that of his forefathers `{{G4269}}`, presenting faith not as a new invention but as a received tradition maintained with a "pure conscience" [[2 Timothy 1:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4269}}` is a concise term that carries significant meaning within its limited use. It bridges the physical and spiritual realms, defining both the practical duty children owe to their parents and the intangible heritage of faith passed from one generation to the next. It illustrates how scripture honors the role of ancestors as both sources of life and foundations of faith.
TRV