### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term πρόσκλισις (prósklisis - `{{G4346}}`) is derived from the compound of πρός (pros), meaning "towards" or "to," and κλίνω (klinō), meaning "to lean" or "to incline." Literally, it describes a physical "leaning towards" or an "inclination." Figuratively, and as it is used in the New Testament, it denotes a strong mental or moral "proclivity," "bias," or "favoritism." This implies a prejudiced leaning or partiality towards one person or group over another, often leading to unfair or unequal treatment. The term captures the essence of a deliberate, preferential inclination that compromises impartiality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word πρόσκλισις (prósklisis - `{{G4346}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[1 Timothy 5:21]]. In this passage, the Apostle Paul issues a solemn charge to Timothy regarding the administration of the church, particularly concerning the treatment of elders: "I charge you before God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels to keep these instructions without partiality, doing nothing out of favoritism" (ESV). The phrase "doing nothing with partiality" (μηδὲν ποιῶν κατὰ πρόσκλισιν) directly addresses the imperative for Timothy, as a leader, to avoid any form of bias or favoritism in his decisions, judgments, or disciplinary actions. The context is one of maintaining integrity and justice within the church community, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their status or relationship with Timothy, are treated fairly and according to the same standards. This singular occurrence powerfully highlights the gravity of the sin of partiality in church leadership.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of πρόσκλισις (prósklisis - `{{G4346}}`) is closely related to other biblical terms and ideas concerning impartiality and justice.
* **προσωπολημψία (prosōpolēmpsia - `{{G4382}}`):** This term, meaning "respect of persons" or "partiality," is a very strong semantic parallel and is more frequently used in the New Testament (e.g., [[Romans 2:11]], [[James 2:1]]). While πρόσκλισις emphasizes the internal "leaning" or "inclination," προσωπολημψία focuses on the outward act of showing preference based on someone's "face" or outward appearance/status. Both terms condemn the same sin of unfair judgment.
* **ἀπροσωπολήμπτως (aprosōpolēmptōs - `{{G62}}`):** The adverbial form meaning "without partiality," used to describe God's character in [[1 Peter 1:17]].
* **διακρίνω (diakrinō - `{{G1252}}`):** Meaning "to distinguish" or "to judge," which, if done improperly or with bias, can lead to partiality.
* **κρίμα (krima - `{{G2917}}`):** "Judgment" or "condemnation." The context of avoiding πρόσκλισις is often related to the exercise of judgment within the community.
The overarching biblical concept is that of God's absolute impartiality, which believers are called to emulate, especially in positions of authority.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of πρόσκλισις (prósklisis - `{{G4346}}`) is profound, touching upon the very character of God and the nature of righteous Christian conduct.
* **God's Impartiality:** The prohibition against πρόσκλισις directly reflects the divine attribute of impartiality. God is consistently portrayed in Scripture as one who shows no favoritism (e.g., [[Romans 2:11]], [[Acts 10:34]], [[Ephesians 6:9]], [[Colossians 3:25]]). He judges righteously, not based on human distinctions like wealth, social status, or ethnicity, but on truth and righteousness.
* **Ethical Demand for Believers:** As those created in God's image and called to imitate Him, believers are likewise commanded to act without πρόσκλισις. This is particularly crucial in the context of community life and leadership within the church. Partiality undermines the principle of equality in Christ, where all are one in Him (e.g., [[Galatians 3:28]]).
* **Integrity of Church Leadership:** Paul's strong admonition to Timothy in [[1 Timothy 5:21]] underscores the vital importance of impartiality for church leaders. Favoritism in judgment, discipline, or distribution of resources can lead to division, resentment, and a distortion of justice within the body of Christ. It compromises the credibility of the gospel and the spiritual authority of those in leadership. Leaders must be seen as fair and just, reflecting God's own character.
* **Justice and Equity:** The avoidance of πρόσκλισις is a foundational principle for fostering justice and equity within the Christian community. It ensures that all members are treated with dignity and fairness, upholding the standards of righteousness that God demands.
### Summary
The Greek word πρόσκλισις (prósklisis - `{{G4346}}`) denotes "partiality" or "favoritism," stemming from a "leaning towards" or "inclination." Its singular appearance in [[1 Timothy 5:21]] delivers a solemn charge to church leaders, specifically Timothy, to conduct all matters "without partiality" and "doing nothing out of favoritism." This divine injunction underscores that πρόσκλισις is antithetical to the nature of God, who is perfectly impartial, and therefore must be eschewed by His people, especially those in positions of spiritual authority. Avoiding πρόσκλισις is crucial for maintaining justice, unity, and the integrity of the Christian witness within the church, reflecting the righteousness of God Himself. It is a call to treat all individuals with equity, free from personal bias or preferential treatment, mirroring God's own character of ἀπροσωπολήμπτως (aprosōpolēmptōs - `{{G62}}`).
TRV