from πρό and λαμβάνω; to take in advance, i.e. (literally) eat before others have an opportunity; (figuratively) to anticipate, surprise:--come aforehand, overtake, take before.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prolambánō**, represented by `{{G4301}}`, means to take in advance, anticipate, or surprise. Its base definition comes from combining πρό (meaning "before") and λαμβάνω (meaning "to take"). While it only appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, its applications are significant, ranging from a sudden spiritual failure to a proactive act of devotion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4301}}` carries different nuances depending on the context. In [[1 Corinthians 11:21]], it describes a selfish action where, during a communal meal, each person **taketh before** other his own supper, leading to a situation where one is hungry and another is drunken. In a more positive light, [[Mark 14:8]] uses the word to describe the woman who anointed Jesus’ body; she had **come aforehand** to perform this act for his burial. Figuratively, [[Galatians 6:1]] uses it to describe a man who is **overtaken** in a fault, suggesting he was caught or surprised by sin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4301}}` in its specific contexts:
* `{{G2675}}` **katartízō** (to complete thoroughly, i.e. repair... or adjust... restore): This is the action believers are instructed to take when a brother is "overtaken" `{{G4301}}` in a fault, highlighting the need for restoration [[Galatians 6:1]].
* `{{G3462}}` **myrízō** (to apply (perfumed) unguent to:--anoint): This is the specific act of devotion the woman performed when she "came aforehand" `{{G4301}}` to prepare Jesus' body for burial [[Mark 14:8]].
* `{{G3983}}` **peináō** (to famish... to crave): This is the negative result of someone "taking before" `{{G4301}}` others at a meal, as it leaves another person to **be hungry** [[1 Corinthians 11:21]].
* `{{G3184}}` **methýō** (to drink to intoxication, i.e. get drunk): Paired with hunger, this describes the disorder in Corinth, where the selfishness of some taking food in advance `{{G4301}}` led to others becoming **drunken** [[1 Corinthians 11:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4301}}` is demonstrated in its varied applications, touching on themes of sin, service, and community life.
* **Spiritual Vulnerability:** The term's use in [[Galatians 6:1]], where a man is "overtaken" in a fault, underscores the element of surprise in spiritual failure. It calls for a compassionate response from the community to **restore** `{{G2675}}` the individual, while remaining aware of the risk of also being **tempted** `{{G3985}}`.
* **Anticipatory Devotion:** In [[Mark 14:8]], the word illustrates a profound act of worship. The woman's action to **anoint** `{{G3462}}` Jesus "aforehand" is commended as doing what she could, showing foresight and love that surpassed that of others.
* **Disruption of Fellowship:** The use in [[1 Corinthians 11:21]] serves as a sharp rebuke against selfishness within the church. To "take before" others is to prioritize oneself, fracturing the unity of the body and creating disorder where some **eat** `{{G5315}}` and are drunken while others are left hungry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4301}}` is a versatile word whose meaning is heavily shaped by its context. It can describe being caught unexpectedly by sin, the selfish haste that harms community, or the beautiful foresight of a selfless act of worship. Each of its three occurrences provides a crucial lesson on Christian conduct, whether in personal fallibility, communal responsibility, or active devotion.