### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun proskopḗ (`{{G4349}}`) is derived from the verb proskóptō (`{{G4350}}`), meaning "to strike against" or "to stumble." Its core meaning in the New Testament is an "occasion of stumbling" or an "offence." It denotes something that causes a person to fall, either literally by striking an obstacle, or more commonly in a figurative and moral sense, by leading someone into sin, causing them to falter in their faith, or bringing discredit upon the gospel. It is not merely the act of sin itself, but the *circumstance* or *action* that provides the opportunity or impetus for sin, or that hinders spiritual progress. The term highlights the causative aspect of a moral fall, emphasizing the external factor that leads to an internal lapse.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Proskopḗ appears twice in the New Testament, both times carrying significant ethical weight:
1. **[[Romans 14:13]]**: "Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way." Here, proskopḗ is paired with skándalon (`{{G4625}}`, "stumbling block"). Paul admonishes believers not to use their Christian liberty in a way that causes a "stumbling block" or an "occasion of sin" for a weaker brother or sister. The context is the exercise of freedom in matters of conscience (e.g., eating meat offered to idols, observing certain days). The stronger believer, who has full understanding of their liberty in Christ, is cautioned against actions that, though permissible for themselves, might lead a weaker believer, whose conscience is not yet fully informed, to violate their own conscience and thus sin. The emphasis is on love and consideration for others, prioritizing their spiritual well-being over the assertion of personal rights.
2. **[[2 Corinthians 6:3]]**: "Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed." In this passage, Paul speaks of his own conduct and that of his fellow ministers. The phrase "giving no offence" (μηδεμίαν ἐν μηδενὶ διδόντες προσκοπήν) means they strive to provide no proskopḗ—no occasion for stumbling or blame—in any aspect of their ministry. This is crucial "that the ministry be not blamed." Here, proskopḗ refers to actions or behaviors that could discredit the gospel message or the integrity of those who proclaim it. It implies avoiding anything that might cause others (both within and outside the church) to stumble in their faith, doubt the sincerity of the ministers, or reject the message itself due to perceived hypocrisy or misconduct. It underscores the vital importance of blameless conduct for the sake of the gospel's reputation and effectiveness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Proskopḗ is closely related to several other Greek terms that convey similar ideas of stumbling or obstacles:
* **Proskóptō (`{{G4350}}`)**: The verb from which proskopḗ is derived, meaning "to strike against," "to stumble," or "to cause to stumble." For instance, in [[Romans 9:32]], Israel "stumbled at the stumbling stone" (προσέκοψαν τῷ λίθῳ τοῦ προσκόμματος).
* **Proskomma (`{{G4348}}`)**: A noun meaning "an obstacle" or "a stumbling block." It is often used interchangeably with skándalon (`{{G4625}}`). In [[Romans 14:13]], proskopḗ is coupled with skándalon, indicating that the "occasion of sin" is caused by a "stumbling block."
* **Skándalon (`{{G4625}}`)**: A "stumbling block," "snare," or "trap." This term often refers to the object or action that causes one to stumble. Proskopḗ describes the *result* or *occasion* of encountering such a skándalon. While skándalon is the object, proskopḗ is the *effect* or *potential effect* of that object.
* **Ptōma (`{{G4431}}`)**: A "fall" or "ruin." While proskopḗ is the *occasion* of stumbling, ptōma can be the *result* of a severe fall, a moral collapse.
These terms collectively highlight the New Testament's deep concern for actions that lead to spiritual harm, either for oneself or for others, and the responsibility of believers to live in a manner that promotes righteousness and does not impede the faith of others.
### Theological Significance
The concept of proskopḗ carries profound theological significance, touching upon several key doctrines:
1. **Corporate Responsibility and Love for Neighbor**: The use of proskopḗ in [[Romans 14:13]] underscores the communal nature of Christian life. Individual liberty, while valid, must be exercised with consideration for the spiritual well-being of others. Love (agapē) demands that believers prioritize the edification and protection of their weaker brethren, even if it means foregoing certain freedoms. This reflects Christ's own self-sacrificial love.
2. **Ministerial Integrity**: In [[2 Corinthians 6:3]], proskopḗ highlights the imperative for ministers of the gospel to maintain blameless conduct. Their lives must not provide any "occasion for stumbling" that could discredit their message or the Lord they serve. This speaks to the holiness required of those who represent God and the importance of their witness to both believers and unbelievers.
3. **The Nature of Sin**: Proskopḗ clarifies that sin is not always an isolated act but can be influenced by external factors or the actions of others. It emphasizes the insidious nature of sin, which can be triggered by seemingly innocuous actions if they are not undertaken with discernment and love.
4. **The Reputation of the Gospel**: Both occurrences of proskopḗ implicitly connect to the reputation of Christ and His Church. When believers cause others to stumble, or when ministers act in a way that gives "offence," the name of God can be blasphemed among the Gentiles ([[Romans 2:24]]). Thus, avoiding proskopḗ is essential for the effective proclamation and reception of the gospel.
5. **Spiritual Maturity**: The ability to discern and avoid causing proskopḗ is an indicator of spiritual maturity. It requires wisdom, self-control, and a deep understanding of the conscience of others, moving beyond mere adherence to rules to a life lived in sacrificial love.
### Summary
Proskopḗ (`{{G4349}}`) signifies an "occasion of stumbling" or an "offence," referring to an action or circumstance that leads another person into sin, causes them to falter in their faith, or brings discredit upon the Christian message. Rooted in the verb "to strike against," it highlights the causative aspect of a moral fall. Its New Testament occurrences in [[Romans 14:13]] and [[2 Corinthians 6:3]] underscore the believer's responsibility to exercise Christian liberty with love and consideration for others, and the imperative for ministers to live blameless lives. Theologically, proskopḗ emphasizes corporate responsibility, ministerial integrity, the insidious nature of sin, and the critical importance of maintaining the gospel's reputation through blameless conduct. Avoiding proskopḗ is a mark of spiritual maturity and a vital expression of Christ-like love.
TRV