from πρός and δαπανάω; to expend additionally:--spend more.
Transliteration:prosdapanáō
Pronunciation:pros-dap-an-ah'-o
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G4325}}` (prosdapanáō) is a compound word formed from the preposition πρός (pros), meaning "to," "toward," or "in addition to," and the verb δαπανάω (dapanáō) `{{G1159}}`, meaning "to spend," "expend," or "waste." The prefix πρός adds a crucial nuance of "additionally," "further," or "more." Thus, `{{G4325}}` signifies the act of expending resources *beyond* what has already been spent or initially committed. It implies a willingness to incur extra cost or effort, indicating generosity, foresight, or a deeper level of commitment than mere obligation. Unlike `{{G1159}}` which can denote simple expenditure or even wasteful spending, `{{G4325}}` specifically highlights the *additional* nature of the outlay, often in a context of care or provision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G4325}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 10:35]]**: "And the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou `{{G4325}}` *spendest more*, when I come again, I will repay thee."
This sole occurrence is found within the Parable of the Good Samaritan. After the Samaritan has already provided first aid and transported the injured man to an inn, he pays the innkeeper two denarii (a significant sum, perhaps two days' wages). His use of `{{G4325}}` ("whatsoever thou spendest more") demonstrates an extraordinary level of compassion and commitment. He not only covers the initial cost but also promises to reimburse any *additional* expenses incurred for the man's continued care. This act goes far beyond the expected, showcasing a radical, self-sacrificial love that transcends ethnic and social boundaries. The phrase underscores the Samaritan's foresight and his willingness to bear an open-ended financial burden for a complete stranger, highlighting the practical and costly nature of true neighborly love.
### Related Words & Concepts
* δαπανάω (dapanáō) `{{G1159}}`: The root verb, meaning "to spend," "expend," or "consume." While `{{G1159}}` can refer to any kind of spending (e.g., [[Luke 15:14]] where the prodigal son "spent all"), `{{G4325}}` specifically adds the dimension of *additional* expenditure.
* ἐκδαπανάω (ekdapanáō) `{{G1590}}`: A related compound verb, meaning "to spend oneself out," "to exhaust one's resources." Paul uses this word in [[2 Corinthians 12:15]] to describe his willingness to "spend and be spent" for the Corinthians. While `{{G1590}}` emphasizes complete depletion, `{{G4325}}` focuses on the *extra* effort or cost beyond an initial outlay.
* δίδωμι (didomi) `{{G1325}}`: A general verb for "to give." While the Samaritan "gave" money, `{{G4325}}` specifies the nature of that giving as an ongoing, potentially increasing, expenditure.
* φιλοξενία (philoxenia) `{{G5381}}`: "Love of strangers," or "hospitality." The Samaritan's action perfectly embodies this concept, extending beyond simple welcome to costly, sustained care.
* The concept of "going the extra mile" (cf. [[Matthew 5:41]]) is conceptually related, though not lexically. Both convey a willingness to exceed expectation or obligation in service to others.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of `{{G4325}}` in the Parable of the Good Samaritan carries profound theological weight. It serves as a powerful illustration of the costly nature of true *agape* love. The Samaritan's willingness to `{{G4325}}` "spend more" exemplifies:
1. **Radical Compassion**: His concern for the injured man was not superficial or limited by convenience. It extended to an open-ended commitment to the man's full recovery, demonstrating a love that is practical, sacrificial, and sustained.
2. **Exceeding Expectation**: The Samaritan went above and beyond any social or religious expectation. This echoes the Kingdom ethic often taught by Jesus, which calls for a righteousness that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees (cf. [[Matthew 5:20]]).
3. **Christological Implications**: Many patristic interpreters have seen Christ himself in the figure of the Good Samaritan. Just as the Samaritan expended himself and promised to `{{G4325}}` spend more for the injured man, Christ, the ultimate Physician, has expended Himself fully for humanity's healing and redemption, bearing the infinite cost of sin and promising ongoing care for His people.
4. **Discipleship and Ministry**: The word challenges believers to consider the true cost of discipleship and ministry. Following Christ means not merely fulfilling basic duties but being prepared to `{{G4325}}` "spend more" – more time, more energy, more resources, more of oneself – in service to God and neighbor, especially to those in greatest need. It signifies a generosity that is not bound by limits or calculations but by the depth of love.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G4325}}` (prosdapanáō), meaning "to expend additionally" or "to spend more," is a uniquely powerful term found only once in the New Testament, in [[Luke 10:35]]. Its single appearance in the Parable of the Good Samaritan profoundly illuminates the nature of true, self-sacrificial love. The Samaritan's pledge to `{{G4325}}` "spend more" for the injured man's care goes beyond initial assistance, demonstrating a costly, open-ended commitment rooted in deep compassion. This word serves as a theological call to a generosity that exceeds mere obligation, reflecting the boundless love of Christ and challenging believers to a life of costly service and radical compassion towards their neighbors.
TRV