from πρός and a probable derivative of κύων (meaning to kiss, like a dog licking his master's hand); to fawn or crouch to, i.e. (literally or figuratively) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore):--worship.
Transliteration:proskynéō
Pronunciation:pros-koo-neh'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G4352}}` (proskynéō) carries a rich semantic range, fundamentally rooted in an act of deep reverence and homage. Etymologically, it is thought to derive from πρός (pros, "towards") and a probable derivative of κύων (kyōn, "dog"), suggesting the image of a dog licking its master's hand or fawning at his feet. This etymological root points to a physical act of prostration, bowing down, or kneeling in submission and adoration.
At its core, `{{G4352}}` signifies "to prostrate oneself in homage," whether literally or figuratively. Its semantic range extends to:
1. **Physical Prostration/Bowing:** The literal act of falling down before someone, often touching the ground with the forehead, as a sign of extreme deference or supplication.
2. **Reverence and Respect:** An act of showing profound respect, honor, or homage to a superior, whether human (e.g., a king, a master) or divine.
3. **Adoration and Worship:** The highest form of reverence, directed exclusively towards God or, significantly in the New Testament, towards Jesus Christ, acknowledging divine sovereignty and worthiness.
4. **False Worship:** The term is also used to describe the illicit worship of idols, false gods, or even the Beast in Revelation, underscoring the critical importance of the *object* of worship.
The nuance of `{{G4352}}` often emphasizes the *act* of showing honor or adoration, particularly through physical posture, which then reflects an internal disposition of submission and awe.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G4352}}` appears frequently in the New Testament, notably in the Gospels and Revelation, illuminating the proper object and nature of worship.
In the Gospels, `{{G4352}}` is used both for human homage and divine worship:
* **Homage to Humans:** It can describe bowing before a king ([[Matthew 2:2]]), a rich man ([[Matthew 18:26]]), or even a prophet ([[Acts 10:25]], where Peter forbids Cornelius from doing so, emphasizing that such homage is due only to God).
* **Worship of Jesus Christ:** Crucially, Jesus consistently accepts `{{G4352}}` directed towards Him. The Magi [[Matthew 2:11]], the leper [[Matthew 8:2]], the ruler whose daughter had died [[Matthew 9:18]], the disciples in the boat [[Matthew 14:33]], the Canaanite woman [[Matthew 15:25]], the mother of James and John [[Matthew 20:20]], the women after the resurrection [[Matthew 28:9]], and the disciples at the ascension [[Luke 24:52]] all `{{G4352}}` Jesus. The blind man healed by Jesus in [[John 9:38]] also performs this act, declaring his faith. Jesus' acceptance of this worship, which is rightly due only to God, is a profound statement about His divine identity.
* **Worship of God the Father:** Jesus Himself instructs that God alone is to be worshipped: "You shall `{{G4352}}` the Lord your God and serve Him only" [[Matthew 4:10]]. The pivotal passage in [[John 4:23-24]] emphasizes that true worship of the Father is "in spirit and truth," transcending physical location to encompass an internal, authentic devotion.
In the book of Revelation, `{{G4352}}` is a central theme, highlighting the cosmic battle over who receives worship:
* **Worship of God and the Lamb:** The heavenly hosts, elders, and living creatures continually `{{G4352}}` God and the Lamb [[Revelation 4:10]], [[Revelation 5:14]], [[Revelation 7:11]], [[Revelation 11:16]], [[Revelation 19:4]]. This portrays the ultimate, rightful worship in heaven.
* **Forbidden Worship:** Angels explicitly forbid being worshipped [[Revelation 19:10]], [[Revelation 22:9]], reiterating that `{{G4352}}` is for God alone.
* **Worship of the Beast and Dragon:** A stark contrast is drawn with the idolatrous worship of the Beast and its image, compelled by the Dragon [[Revelation 13:4]], [[Revelation 13:8]], [[Revelation 14:9]], [[Revelation 16:2]]. This represents ultimate rebellion against God and is met with divine judgment.
The contextual analysis reveals that while `{{G4352}}` can denote general reverence, its most significant use is in the realm of divine worship, where the *object* of the act determines its legitimacy and spiritual consequence.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of worship is deeply interwoven with other theological terms and ideas:
* **Hebrew Equivalents:** The primary Old Testament equivalent to `{{G4352}}` is `{{H7812}}` (shachah), which also means "to bow down," "to prostrate oneself," or "to do homage." This term is used extensively for bowing before God, but also before kings, prophets, or even in polite greeting. Another related Hebrew term is `{{H5456}}` (sāgād), found in Daniel, meaning "to prostrate oneself," particularly in adoration. The Septuagint frequently translates `{{H7812}}` with `{{G4352}}`.
* **Greek Synonyms/Related Concepts:**
* `{{G3000}}` (latreia): Often translated "service" or "worship," but typically refers to cultic or ritualistic service rendered to God, emphasizing the *act of service* rather than the act of prostration and adoration. While related, `{{G4352}}` focuses more on the posture and reverence.
* `{{G4573}}` (sebomai): "to revere," "to worship," often with a sense of awe or veneration. It can be used for both true and false worship.
* `{{G2151}}` (eusebeia): "godliness," "piety," referring to the internal disposition and conduct that reflects true worship and devotion to God.
* **Concepts:** `{{G4352}}` is inherently linked to concepts such as:
* **Sovereignty:** Acknowledging the supreme authority and power of the one being worshipped.
* **Humility:** The act of prostration signifies a humbling of oneself before a greater being.
* **Adoration:** Expressing profound love, admiration, and devotion.
* **Submission:** Yielding one's will to the one worshipped.
* **Obedience:** True worship often implies a willingness to obey the commands of the worshipped.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4352}}` is profound, shaping core doctrines of Christianity:
1. **Exclusivity of Divine Worship:** The consistent biblical teaching is that `{{G4352}}` in its fullest sense—adoration and homage—is due to God alone. This is a foundational tenet of monotheism, famously articulated in Jesus' response to Satan's temptation: "You shall `{{G4352}}` the Lord your God and serve Him only" [[Matthew 4:10]]. To `{{G4352}}` anyone or anything else is idolatry and rebellion against God.
2. **Christological Affirmation:** Jesus' acceptance of `{{G4352}}` is one of the strongest New Testament affirmations of His divinity. Unlike angels or apostles who refuse such worship, Jesus consistently receives it without rebuke, demonstrating that He shares the unique prerogative of God. This supports the doctrine of the deity of Christ.
3. **Nature of True Worship:** [[John 4:23-24]] provides a crucial theological framework for worship. Jesus declares that the Father seeks worshippers who `{{G4352}}` Him "in spirit and truth." This transcends physical location or ritualistic acts, emphasizing an internal, authentic, and Spirit-empowered adoration that aligns with God's nature and revealed truth. It is worship that flows from the heart and is consistent with God's character.
4. **Eschatological Conflict:** The book of Revelation portrays the ultimate cosmic conflict as a battle over who will receive `{{G4352}}`. The worship of God and the Lamb by the redeemed is contrasted sharply with the worship of the Beast and Dragon by the wicked. This highlights that worship is not merely a religious act but a declaration of allegiance with eternal consequences.
### Summary
`{{G4352}}` (proskynéō) denotes the act of prostration or bowing down in profound reverence, homage, and adoration. While it can signify general respect, its primary theological weight in the New Testament lies in its use for divine worship. The consistent teaching is that `{{G4352}}` in its ultimate sense is reserved for God alone, a truth powerfully underscored by Jesus' acceptance of such worship, which serves as a compelling testimony to His divine nature. The concept transcends mere physical posture, encompassing an internal disposition of heartfelt devotion "in spirit and truth." The biblical narrative, particularly in Revelation, presents `{{G4352}}` as a central theme in the cosmic struggle between allegiance to God and idolatry, making the proper object of worship a matter of eternal significance.
TRV