### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proérchomai**, represented by `{{G4281}}`, means to go onward or precede in place or time. It is formed from the words πρό and ἔρχομαι. It appears **10 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible and is translated in ways that include "go before," "go forward," "outgo," and "pass on."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4281}}` is used to describe literal movement that carries significant intent. It is used to describe Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane, where "he went a little further" to pray to the Father ([[Matthew 26:39]], [[Mark 14:35]]). The word also denotes leadership, as when Judas "went before" the multitude to betray Jesus [[Luke 22:47]]. In other contexts, it signifies preparation, such as the prophecy that John the Baptist would "go before" the Lord [[Luke 1:17]] or when Paul's companions were "going before" to Troas [[Acts 20:5]]. It can even describe surpassing others, as when a crowd "outwent" Jesus and his disciples to meet them [[Mark 6:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of `{{G4281}}`:
* `{{G1448}}` **engízō**: This word means "to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach." It is used alongside `{{G4281}}` in the account of Judas's betrayal, who first "went before" the crowd and then "drew near" to Jesus [[Luke 22:47]].
* `{{G1799}}` **enṓpion**: This term means "in the face of" or "before." It provides context for John the Baptist's mission to "go before" the Lord, specifying that this action would be done in His presence [[Luke 1:17]].
* `{{G1831}}` **exérchomai**: Meaning "to issue" or "go out," this word is used in sequence with `{{G4281}}`. After Peter and the angel "went out" of the prison, they "passed on through one street" [[Acts 12:10]].
* `{{G4936}}` **syntréchō**: Meaning "to rush together," this word describes the action that enabled the crowd to "outwent" Jesus. They first "ran" and were then able to get ahead of him [[Mark 6:33]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4281}}` illustrates several important actions and their underlying motives.
* **Forerunning and Preparation:** The word is central to the concept of a forerunner. John the Baptist's role was to "go before" the Lord to prepare a people for Him [[Luke 1:17]]. Similarly, brethren were sent to "go before" to make ready a promised bounty [[2 Corinthians 9:5]].
* **Leadership and Initiative:** To "go before" is often to lead. This is seen tragically in Judas, who "went before" the multitude, taking the initiative in the betrayal of Jesus [[Luke 22:47]].
* **Separation for Communion:** Jesus demonstrates a different kind of precedence by "went forward a little" from his disciples in Gethsemane. This act of going ahead was to separate himself for a unique and solitary moment of prayer with the Father [[Mark 14:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4281}}` is a dynamic action word describing forward movement. While its basic meaning is simple, the context reveals its significance. It can define the mission of a prophet preparing the way, the tragic initiative of a betrayer, the physical urgency of a crowd, or the solemn separation of the Son from his disciples to speak with his Father. The intent behind the action gives this word its profound weight in the narrative.
TRV