from πρό and κεῖμαι; to lie before the view, i.e. (figuratively) to be present (to the mind), to stand forth (as an example or reward):--be first, set before (forth).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prókeimai**, represented by `{{G4295}}`, means to lie before the view or to be present. Figuratively, it conveys the idea of something that stands forth as an example or a reward, or is simply present to the mind. The term appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the New Testament, often translated as "set before," "set forth for," or "be first."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4295}}` consistently refers to something placed in front of a person as a focus for their actions or understanding. Believers are called to run the "race that is **set before** us" [[Hebrews 12:1]], and Jesus himself "for the joy that was **set before** him endured the cross" [[Hebrews 12:2]]. It is also used to describe the "hope **set before us**" that believers flee to lay hold of for consolation [[Hebrews 6:18]]. In a different context, Sodom and Gomorrah are "**set forth for** an example" of vengeance [[Jude 1:7]]. The word can also denote a prerequisite, as in the principle that if there "**be first** a willing mind, it is accepted" [[2 Corinthians 8:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of what is "set before" someone:
* `{{G73}}` **agṓn** (race): This is the specific challenge **set before** believers, described as a "conflict, contention, fight, race" that requires patience to run [[Hebrews 12:1]].
* `{{G1164}}` **deîgma** (example): This term is explicitly paired with `{{G4295}}` when describing Sodom and Gomorrah being set forth as "a specimen (as shown)" to serve as a public warning [[Jude 1:7]].
* `{{G5278}}` **hypoménō** (to endure): This is the action Jesus took in response to the joy **set before** him. It means "to undergo, i.e. bear (trials), have fortitude, persevere" [[Hebrews 12:2]].
* `{{G2902}}` **kratéō** (to lay hold): This describes the action believers take toward the hope **set before** them, using strength to seize or retain it [[Hebrews 6:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4295}}` centers on motivation, warning, and the state of the heart.
* **A Goal for Endurance:** The word is used to establish a clear objective that inspires perseverance. Both the "race" for believers and the "joy" for Jesus are presented as goals that make enduring hardship possible ([[Hebrews 12:1]], [[Hebrews 12:2]]). The "hope **set before us**" serves a similar purpose, offering strong consolation to those who have fled for refuge [[Hebrews 6:18]].
* **A Public Warning:** By setting forth Sodom and Gomorrah as an example, the term is used to present a visible, public warning against giving oneself over to fornication and going after strange flesh [[Jude 1:7]].
* **A Prerequisite for Acceptance:** The term establishes that a "willing mind" must **be first** present for an offering to be accepted by God, highlighting that the inner disposition precedes the acceptable act [[2 Corinthians 8:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4295}}` is a powerful word used to describe something placed directly in one's view as a defining object of focus. Whether it is a positive motivation like a race to be run, a joy to be obtained, or a hope to be seized, or a negative warning like an example to be avoided, the word emphasizes the importance of a clear and present objective. It teaches that what is set before us has the power to shape our endurance, guide our actions, and define the conditions of our faith.
TRV