from πρός and δέχομαι; to admit (to intercourse, hospitality, credence, or (figuratively) endurance); by implication, to await (with confidence or patience):--accept, allow, look (wait) for, take.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prosdéchomai**, represented by `{{G4327}}`, means to admit, await with confidence, or accept. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible. The word conveys a sense of active and patient expectation, as well as the deliberate act of receiving or welcoming someone or something.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4327}}` is used in several key ways. It frequently describes the posture of the faithful who are awaiting God's salvation, as when Simeon was **waiting** for the consolation of Israel [[Luke 2:25]] and Joseph of Arimathaea **waited** for the kingdom of God [[Mark 15:43]]. The term is also used for the act of receiving people, such as when the Pharisees complained that Jesus **receiveth** sinners [[Luke 15:2]], or when Paul instructs the church to **receive** Phoebe in the Lord [[Romans 16:2]]. In a context of endurance, some martyrs were tortured, not **accepting** deliverance in hopes of a better resurrection [[Hebrews 11:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4327}}`:
* `{{G1680}}` **elpís** (hope): Defined as expectation or confidence, this is often the object of the waiting. Believers are described as **looking for** `{{G4327}}` that blessed **hope** `{{G1680}}` [[Titus 2:13]].
* `{{G1010}}` **bouleutḗs** (counsellor): This term describes a member of the Jewish Sanhedrin. Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable **counsellor** `{{G1010}}`, is identified as one who **waited** `{{G4327}}` for the kingdom of God [[Mark 15:43]].
* `{{G1860}}` **epangelía** (promise): This word for a divine assurance or pledge appears in a plot against Paul, where the conspirators are **looking for** `{{G4327}}` a **promise** from the commander to carry out their plan [[Acts 23:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4327}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of the Christian faith.
* **Patient Expectation:** The word defines the hopeful anticipation that characterizes a believer's life. This is not passive waiting but a confident looking for the fulfillment of God's promises, such as the **appearing** of Jesus Christ [[Titus 2:13]], the **mercy** of our Lord [[Jude 1:21]], and the **redemption** in Jerusalem [[Luke 2:38]].
* **Welcoming Fellowship:** `{{G4327}}` underscores the importance of acceptance within the community of faith. Paul commands believers to **receive** fellow saints in the Lord [[Romans 16:2]] and to hold such people in reputation [[Philippians 2:29]]. This reflects the grace first demonstrated by Jesus, who **receiveth** sinners [[Luke 15:2]].
* **Endurance for a Future Hope:** The act of accepting or not accepting something is tied to eternal perspective. Believers in Hebrews joyfully **took** `{{G4327}}` the loss of their possessions because they were confident of a better and enduring substance in heaven [[Hebrews 10:34]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4327}}` describes a foundational posture of faith. It is a word that combines patient waiting with active acceptance. Whether it is **looking for** the return of Christ, **receiving** a brother or sister in the Lord, or **accepting** hardship with an eye toward a greater reward, **prosdéchomai** captures the confident and welcoming spirit of one who trusts in God's ultimate plan.
TRV