The Greek word prókrima, represented by G4299, refers to a prejudgment or prejudice. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its base definition, derived from a compound of Greek words, points to the concept of prepossession, or to prefer one before another.
The sole use of G4299 is found in 1 Timothy 5:21. In this verse, Timothy receives a solemn charge to "observe these things without preferring one before another." This command is given in the sight of God, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, underscoring its immense gravity. The instruction links prejudgment directly with the act of doing nothing by partiality, establishing a clear biblical prohibition against favoritism.
Several related words in its single context clarify the meaning of G4299:
- G4346 prósklisis (partiality): Used in the same phrase, this word means "a leaning towards, i.e. (figuratively) proclivity (favoritism)." It reinforces the warning against bias, appearing alongside G4299 to forbid any form of favoritism 1 Timothy 5:21.
- G1263 diamartýromai (charge): This term means "to attest or protest earnestly." It establishes the solemn and binding nature of the command to avoid prejudice, as seen when issuing a charge before God 2 Timothy 4:1.
- G5442 phylássō (observe): This word means "to watch, i.e. be on guard." It describes the required action: to guard or keep these commands without prejudgment, just as believers are to keep God's word Luke 11:28.
The theological weight of G4299 is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
- The Standard of Divine Impartiality: The command to act without prejudgment is given before G1799 God G2316, Jesus Christ G2424G5547, and the elect G1588 angels G32. This places the principle of impartiality under divine witness, reflecting the nature of God himself, before whom all are held accountable 1 Timothy 5:21.
- Integrity in Spiritual Leadership: The instruction is directed at a leader within the church. This establishes that avoiding prejudgment and partiality G4346 is a non-negotiable requirement for spiritual authority and administration.
- A Prohibition of Pre-Judging: At its core, G4299 is a command against making up one's mind before having the facts. It is a call to objective, fair treatment for all, rooted in the understanding that judgment belongs to the Lord G2962 2 Timothy 4:1.
In summary, G4299 prókrima is a precise term for prejudgment or prejudice. Though it appears only once, its context in 1 Timothy 5:21 makes it a cornerstone for ethical conduct in Christian leadership. It serves as a solemn command to avoid favoritism and pre-judging, framing impartiality not as a human ideal but as a divine standard witnessed by God, Christ, and the angels. This single word carries a profound instruction on justice, fairness, and godly integrity.
TRV