### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prokyróō**, represented by `{{G4300}}`, means to **ratify previously** or **confirm before**. This extremely rare term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its significance lies in its specific legal and theological function: to establish the unbreakable and prior validity of a divine act.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4300}}` is in [[Galatians 3:17]], where it serves as the linchpin of a crucial argument. The verse explains that the covenant, which was **confirmed before** by God, could not be disannulled by the law that came four hundred and thirty years later. By using this term, the text emphasizes that the covenant of promise was pre-validated and holds permanent authority that a subsequent law cannot override or make of "none effect."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the context for the action of `{{G4300}}`:
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē**: Defined as a **contract** or **covenant**, this is the object that was "confirmed before" in [[Galatians 3:17]]. It is foundational to God's relationship with humanity, appearing in contexts such as the "new testament" [[2 Corinthians 3:6]] and the "everlasting covenant" [[Hebrews 13:20]].
* `{{G1860}}` **epangelía**: Meaning an **announcement** or **promise**, this is what is protected by the prior confirmation. The law cannot nullify the promise associated with the covenant [[Galatians 3:17]]. This word refers to a "divine assurance of good," such as the "promise of the Spirit" [[Galatians 3:14]] and the "promise of eternal inheritance" [[Hebrews 9:15]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós**: Meaning a **deity** or the **supreme Divinity**, this identifies the one who performs the action. It is **God** who confirmed the covenant beforehand [[Galatians 3:17]], establishing its divine and unchangeable nature.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4300}}` is centered on the irreversible nature of God's declarations.
* **Irrevocable Covenants:** The primary function of this word is to show that a **covenant** `{{G1242}}` from **God** `{{G2316}}` is permanently established once it is ratified. The "before" aspect of the confirmation makes it foundational.
* **Primacy of Promise:** In its scriptural context, `{{G4300}}` is used to argue for the superiority and permanence of the **promise** `{{G1860}}` given through the covenant. This promise cannot be voided by the later introduction of the law.
* **Divine Authority:** The act of "confirming before" is a declaration of supreme authority. By pre-validating the covenant, God ensures its status is beyond challenge or alteration by subsequent human history or even later divine commands like the law.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4300}}` appears only once, its meaning is powerful. It functions to legally and theologically secure the permanence of God's covenant of promise. Its usage in [[Galatians 3:17]] is essential for understanding the relationship between law and promise, demonstrating that what God has previously confirmed stands firm and cannot be annulled. The word encapsulates the concept of a divinely pre-ratified and unshakeable truth.
TRV