### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proéchomai**, represented by `{{G4284}}`, is used to ask about excelling or being **better**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, signifying its specific and focused role. The term is derived from words meaning "to hold oneself before others," which figuratively translates to the concept of excelling.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G4284}}` is found in a pivotal rhetorical question in [[Romans 3:9]]: "What then? are we **better** than they?". This question is immediately answered with a definitive "No," establishing a key argument. The context is a theological discourse demonstrating that neither **Jews** `{{G2453}}` nor **Gentiles** `{{G1672}}` hold a superior spiritual status. The reason given is that all have been "before proved" `{{G4256}}` to be universally "under **sin**" `{{G266}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context clarify its meaning:
* `{{G4256}}` **proaitiáomai** (prove before): Meaning "to accuse already, i.e. previously charge," this verb establishes the prior evidence that nullifies any claim to be **better**. It is used in [[Romans 3:9]] to state that the case has already been made.
* `{{G2453}}` **Ioudaîos** (Jew): This term for a "Judæan, i.e. belonging to Jehudah," identifies one of the primary groups being compared. The question of being **better** is posed in relation to them.
* `{{G1672}}` **Héllēn** (Gentile): Defined as a "Greek-speaking person, especially a non-Jew," this word represents the other group in the comparison, highlighting the universal scope of the argument [[Romans 3:9]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (sin): This is the universal condition, an "offence, sin," that places both Jews and Gentiles on equal footing, proving that neither group is inherently **better**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4284}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, where it serves a critical function.
* **Universal Sinfulness:** The question "are we **better**?" is raised specifically to be refuted. It powerfully introduces the doctrine that all humanity, without distinction between **Jew** `{{G2453}}` and **Gentile** `{{G1672}}`, is under the power of **sin** `{{G266}}` [[Romans 3:9]].
* **Dismantling Superiority:** By using **proéchomai** in a rhetorical question, the text dismantles any claim to ethnic or religious superiority. This establishes the equal standing of all people before God.
* **Foundation for Universal Salvation:** This declaration that no one is **better** lays the groundwork for the gospel, which offers salvation to all who believe, "to the **Jew** `{{G2453}}` first, and also to the **Greek** `{{G1672}}`" [[Romans 1:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4284}}` is a rare but impactful word. Its solitary use in [[Romans 3:9]] is not a passing detail but the hinge of a crucial theological argument. By asking "are we **better**?", the text forces the reader to confront the universal reality of **sin** `{{G266}}`. It levels the spiritual landscape, showing that no one holds an advantage, thereby underscoring the equal need and availability of salvation for all people.
TRV