### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proepangéllomai**, represented by `{{G4279}}`, is defined as **to promise of old** or **to promise before**. This specific term is notably rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its meaning is focused on the act of making a promise in a time long past.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G4279}}` is found in [[Romans 1:2]], where it establishes the historical foundation of the gospel. The verse states that the gospel was **promised afore** by God. This promise was not made in isolation but was delivered **by** his prophets and recorded **in** the **holy** scriptures. This context anchors the message of the New Testament in the prophetic promises documented long before.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Romans 1:2]] help clarify the nature of this pre-existing promise:
* `{{G1223}}` **diá** (through): This word denotes the channel by which the promise was delivered. The promise came **through** God's prophets, indicating they were the chosen vessels for this revelation [[Romans 1:2]].
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs** (a foreteller ("prophet")): These are the specific individuals God used to communicate His promise. The scriptures identify them as God's **prophets**, and their writings are said to point to Jesus [[John 1:45]].
* `{{G40}}` **hágios** (sacred... holy): This adjective describes the nature of the scriptures containing the promise. By calling them **holy**, their divine origin and sacred character are emphasized [[Romans 1:2]].
* `{{G1124}}` **graphḗ** (a document, i.e. holy Writ... scripture): This identifies the location of the promise. The **scriptures** are the written record that testifies to God's plan and provides comfort and hope [[Romans 15:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4279}}` is centered on the continuity and fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The word confirms that the gospel is the fulfillment of what was **promised afore**. This establishes a direct line from the Old Testament prophecies to the person and work of Christ, as spoken **by** the **prophets** [[Romans 1:2]].
* **Divine Foreknowledge:** The act of promising something "of old" implies God's deliberate and long-standing plan. The promise was not an afterthought but was part of a plan foreknown by God and communicated through His chosen messengers.
* **Scriptural Authority:** By placing the promise **in** the **holy scriptures**, the word underscores the authority and reliability of the biblical text as the inspired record of God's unfolding plan [[Romans 1:2]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4279}}` is used only once, its significance is immense. It encapsulates the concept of a divinely-ordained promise from antiquity. Its appearance in [[Romans 1:2]] is crucial for understanding that the gospel message is not a new revelation but the long-awaited fulfillment of what God had **promised before** through his **prophets** in the **holy scriptures**.
TRV