from πρός and a derivative of ἀγορά (mean to harangue); to address, i.e. salute by name:--call.
Transliteration:prosagoreúō
Pronunciation:pros-ag-or-yoo'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb προσαγορεύω (prosagoreúō `{{G4316}}`) is derived from the preposition πρός (pros), meaning "to" or "towards," and a derivative of ἀγορά (agora), which refers to a marketplace or public assembly. The base verb ἀγορεύω (agoreúō) means "to speak in the assembly," "to harangue," or "to declare publicly." When combined with πρός, προσαγορεύω takes on the specific nuance of "to address," "to salute by name," or more precisely, "to call by a specific title" or "to designate." It implies a formal, often public, and authoritative declaration or naming, setting it apart from a mere casual address. The core meaning thus centers on the act of officially designating someone with a particular name, title, or status.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word προσαγορεύω (prosagoreúō `{{G4316}}`) appears only once in the entire New Testament, specifically in the Epistle to the Hebrews:
* **Hebrews 5:10:** "having been designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek." (τὸν προσαγορευθέντα ὑπὸ τοῦ θεοῦ ἀρχιερέα κατὰ τὴν τάξιν Μελχισεδέκ)
In this sole occurrence, the passive form of the verb, προσαγορευθέντα (having been designated/called), is used to describe God's action concerning Jesus. The context of Hebrews 5 is an exposition on the high priesthood of Christ. The author has just established that a high priest is appointed by God, not by self-proclamation (Hebrews 5:4). Immediately following the assertion that Christ did not glorify himself to become high priest but was appointed by God (Hebrews 5:5-6), and after detailing Christ's suffering and obedience (Hebrews 5:7-9), the author states that Christ was "designated" or "called" by God as a high priest "according to the order of Melchizedek."
The use of προσαγορεύω here is profoundly significant. It underscores the divine initiative and authoritative declaration behind Christ's high priestly office. It is not a title Jesus merely assumed, but one formally bestowed upon Him by God. This "calling" or "designation" is not a simple naming but an official investiture of office, emphasizing the legitimacy and unique nature of His priesthood, which transcends the Levitical order and aligns with the ancient, mysterious figure of Melchizedek. The verb highlights the divine decree establishing Christ's permanent and superior priestly function.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share semantic overlap with προσαγορεύω (prosagoreúō `{{G4316}}`), yet προσαγορεύω carries a distinct weight of formal designation:
* καλέω (kaleō `{{G2564}}`): This is the most common Greek word for "to call," "to invite," or "to name." While καλέω can certainly imply divine calling (e.g., God calling people to salvation), προσαγορεύω in Hebrews 5:10 suggests a more specific, official, and titular designation rather than a general invitation or naming.
* ὀνομάζω (onomazō `{{G3687}}`): Meaning "to name" or "to call by name." This verb focuses more on the act of giving a name. προσαγορεύω goes beyond merely naming to formally addressing or designating with a specific title or role.
* προσφωνέω (prosphōneō `{{G4377}}`): Also formed with πρός, meaning "to call to," "to address," or "to speak to." This verb is more general, referring to the act of speaking to someone directly, whereas προσαγορεύω implies a more formal and authoritative declaration of identity or status.
* The underlying concept of ἀγορεύω (agoreúō), "to speak publicly" or "to declare," is crucial. The prefix πρός directs this public declaration *towards* someone, specifically in the act of bestowing a title or status.
* The related concepts include divine appointment, authoritative declaration, investiture, and the bestowal of office, particularly in a theological or cultic context.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of προσαγορεύω (prosagoreúō `{{G4316}}`) in [[Hebrews 5:10]] carries profound theological weight, primarily concerning the nature of Christ's high priesthood:
1. **Divine Authority and Initiative:** The fact that Christ was "designated by God" (ὑπὸ τοῦ θεοῦ προσαγορευθέντα) emphasizes that His high priestly office is not self-appointed or humanly conferred, but originates entirely from the Father's sovereign will and authority. This underscores the divine legitimacy and efficacy of His mediatorial work.
2. **Unique Designation:** The choice of προσαγορεύω highlights the formal and definitive nature of this calling. It is a unique, authoritative declaration that sets Christ apart as the specific, divinely chosen High Priest "according to the order of Melchizedek." This designation distinguishes His priesthood from the temporary, Levitical system, establishing its superiority and eternal validity.
3. **Christ's Qualification:** Following the description of Christ's suffering and obedience (Hebrews 5:7-9), this designation affirms that He was perfectly qualified for this supreme office. His human experience of temptation and suffering, coupled with His perfect obedience, made Him a sympathetic and effective High Priest for humanity. God's formal designation confirms His fitness.
4. **Foundation for Christology:** This verse is a cornerstone for understanding Christ's identity and role as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity. His designation as High Priest is integral to His saving work, enabling Him to offer a perfect sacrifice and intercede eternally on behalf of believers.
### Summary
The Greek verb προσαγορεύω (prosagoreúō `{{G4316}}`) signifies a formal, authoritative designation or calling by a specific name or title. Its singular appearance in [[Hebrews 5:10]] is exceptionally significant, where it describes God's act of "designating" or "calling" Jesus as a high priest "according to the order of Melchizedek." This precise word choice emphasizes the divine initiative, authoritative declaration, and unique nature of Christ's high priestly office, confirming that His role as mediator is divinely appointed and eternally valid. It underscores the legitimacy and superiority of Christ's priesthood, which is not of human origin but flows directly from the sovereign will of God.
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