### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proskartérēsis**, represented by `{{G4343}}`, is a term for **perseverance**. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, signifying its specific and focused meaning. Its base definition is persistency.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4343}}` is found in [[Ephesians 6:18]], where it is presented as a crucial component of a believer's prayer life. The verse calls for "watching thereunto with all **perseverance** and supplication for all saints." In this context, **perseverance** is not an isolated virtue but is directly linked to the acts of being spiritually watchful and making petitions on behalf of other believers. It describes the steadfast, persistent nature required for effective prayer.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its immediate context in [[Ephesians 6:18]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G4336}}` **proseúchomai** (to pray to God, i.e. supplicate, worship): This is the action of praying, which is to be done always [[Ephesians 6:18]] and is the context in which **perseverance** is commanded.
* `{{G4335}}` **proseuchḗ** (prayer (worship)): The noun for prayer, which is to be offered with **perseverance**. The call to continue in **prayer** is also seen in [[Colossians 4:2]].
* `{{G1162}}` **déēsis** (a petition:--prayer, request, supplication): This word for supplication appears twice in [[Ephesians 6:18]], framing the command to act with **perseverance** as being for the purpose of making requests for all saints.
* `{{G69}}` **agrypnéō** (to be sleepless, i.e. keep awake:--watch): This term for watching is directly connected to **perseverance**, indicating that persistency is a key part of spiritual alertness [[Ephesians 6:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4343}}` is significant despite its rarity. Its singular use highlights a specific aspect of Christian discipline.
* **Endurance in Intercession:** The word is explicitly tied to making "supplication for all saints" [[Ephesians 6:18]], establishing **perseverance** as a non-negotiable quality for those who pray for others.
* **Active Spiritual Alertness:** By being paired with "watching" [[Ephesians 6:18]], **perseverance** is shown to be an active, not passive, state. It requires a conscious and sustained effort to remain spiritually awake and focused.
* **A Foundation for Constant Prayer:** The command in [[Ephesians 6:18]] is to pray "always." The inclusion of **perseverance** provides a practical quality needed to fulfill this command, moving beyond momentary prayers to a sustained life of prayer.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4343}}` provides a sharp focus on the quality of endurance in prayer. Though used only once, its placement in scripture defines **perseverance** as an essential element of spiritual watchfulness and faithful intercession for others. It illustrates how a single, specific word can convey a profound instruction for the believer's spiritual life.
TRV