### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pródēlos**, represented by `{{G4271}}`, means "plain before all men, i.e. obvious." It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from πρό and δῆλος, its translations include **evident**, **manifest beforehand**, and **open beforehand**, signifying something that is clearly visible or known in advance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4271}}` highlights things that are unmistakably clear. In Hebrews, it is used to state that it is **evident** that the Lord came from the tribe of Judah, a fact about His lineage that was not in dispute [[Hebrews 7:14]]. In 1 Timothy, the word is used twice in consecutive verses to contrast the nature of sin and good works. First, it describes sins that are **open beforehand**, preceding individuals to judgment [[1 Timothy 5:24]]. Immediately following, it is used for good works that are **manifest beforehand**, emphasizing that just as some sins are obvious, so are some righteous deeds, while others will eventually be revealed [[1 Timothy 5:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of what is obvious versus what is revealed over time:
* `{{G4254}}` **proágō** (to lead forward... go before): This word is used alongside `{{G4271}}` to describe sins that are not just obvious but are "going before" a person to judgment [[1 Timothy 5:24]].
* `{{G1872}}` **epakolouthéō** (to accompany:--follow (after)): In contrast to things that are obvious beforehand, this term describes sins that "follow after" a person, suggesting a later revelation [[1 Timothy 5:24]].
* `{{G2928}}` **krýptō** (to conceal...:--hide): This term provides a direct contrast to `{{G4271}}`, emphasizing that some things, unlike those that are manifest beforehand, "cannot be hid" and will eventually be exposed [[1 Timothy 5:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4271}}` centers on the concepts of revelation and accountability.
* **Evident Truth:** The word is used to establish the certainty of foundational truths. The fact that Christ's lineage from Judah is **evident** serves as an undisputed premise for the argument concerning his priesthood [[Hebrews 7:14]].
* **Moral Visibility:** In 1 Timothy, `{{G4271}}` underscores the principle that actions have consequences and are ultimately visible. Some sins are **open beforehand**, immediately marking a person for judgment [[1 Timothy 5:24]].
* **Revelation of Character:** Similarly, good works can also be **manifest beforehand**. This highlights a contrast between what is immediately obvious and what will be revealed later, affirming that no deed, good or bad, can ultimately be hid [[1 Timothy 5:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4271}}` **pródēlos** is a term that signifies what is plainly obvious and known in advance. While appearing only three times, it carries significant weight in its contexts, establishing the certainty of Christ's lineage and illustrating the principle that both sin and righteousness will be made manifest. It teaches that some aspects of human character are immediately evident, while others follow, but nothing can be permanently hidden.
TRV