### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun πρόσληψις (próslēpsis, `{{G4356}}`) is derived from the verb προσλαμβάνω (proslambanō, `{{G4355}}`), which means "to take to oneself," "to receive," "to admit," or "to welcome." Consequently, πρόσληψις denotes the act or state of being received, admitted, or taken in. It carries the nuance of an active, intentional embrace or incorporation, rather than a passive reception. The prefix "προς-" (pros-) signifies "to" or "towards," emphasizing the direction and purpose of the action, suggesting an addition or an act of taking something or someone *to oneself*. Thus, the core meaning is one of active acceptance, inclusion, or re-admission into fellowship or favor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πρόσληψις (próslēpsis, `{{G4356}}`) occurs only once in the New Testament, found in [[Romans 11:15]]: "For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their *acceptance* be but life from the dead?" In this pivotal verse, the Apostle Paul is expounding on God's enduring plan for Israel. The "their" refers to the nation of Israel. Paul draws a stark contrast between Israel's temporary "rejection" (ἀποβολή - apobolē, `{{G648}}`), which paradoxically led to the reconciliation of the world through the Gentiles, and their future "acceptance" (πρόσληψις). This "acceptance" signifies God's re-admission and restoration of His covenant people into full favor and blessing. The context is eschatological, pointing to a future divine act wherein Israel will be fully re-embraced by God, a re-inclusion that Paul describes as nothing less than "life from the dead," indicating a profound spiritual renewal and revitalization.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verb προσλαμβάνω (proslambanō, `{{G4355}}`), from which πρόσληψις is formed. This verb is used in various contexts to denote the act of taking someone to oneself, receiving them into fellowship, or taking food. For example, in [[Acts 18:27]], Aquila and Priscilla "received" Apollos; in [[Acts 27:36]], Paul urged the shipwrecked crew to "take" food; and in [[Philemon 1:17]], Paul exhorts Philemon to "receive" Onesimus as he would receive Paul himself. These usages underscore the active, intentional, and often welcoming nature of the verb, which is carried over into the noun πρόσληψις. The antonym, ἀποβολή (apobolē, `{{G648}}`), meaning "rejection" or "casting off," is explicitly contrasted with πρόσληψις in [[Romans 11:15]], highlighting the specific meaning of re-acceptance. Broader theological concepts related to πρόσληψις include reconciliation (καταλλαγή - katallagē, `{{G2643}}`), divine faithfulness, covenant, restoration, and eschatological hope.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of πρόσληψις in [[Romans 11:15]] imbues it with immense theological weight. It serves as a profound affirmation of God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises to Israel. Despite Israel's temporary "setting aside" due to their unbelief, which opened the door for Gentile inclusion into the people of God, Paul declares that God's ultimate plan includes their complete "acceptance" or re-admission. This act of divine πρόσληψις is portrayed as a future event that will be transformative, described as "life from the dead." This phrase suggests a spiritual resurrection for the nation of Israel, a revitalization that will bring unparalleled blessing not only to them but also to the entire world. The term underscores the sovereignty of God's grace, as He is the one who initiates and accomplishes this act of "receiving" His people back into full favor. It speaks to the ultimate triumph of God's redemptive purposes and His commitment to His chosen people.
### Summary
The Greek word πρόσληψις (próslēpsis, `{{G4356}}`) signifies an active and intentional act of receiving, admitting, or re-embracing. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Romans 11:15]] is profoundly significant, where it denotes God's future re-acceptance and restoration of the nation of Israel. This divine act of πρόσληψις stands in stark contrast to Israel's temporary "rejection" and is depicted as a spiritual "life from the dead," promising immense blessing for the world. The term powerfully conveys God's enduring faithfulness, sovereign grace, and ultimate redemptive plan for His covenant people, culminating in a glorious eschatological hope.
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