### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prospoiéomai**, represented by `{{G4364}}`, means to pretend or **make as though** one is about to do something. It is derived from words meaning "to do forward for oneself." This term appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, but its usage occurs in significant moments in the Gospels.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{G4364}}` illustrate different applications of feigning an action. In Luke's account of the road to Emmaus, the resurrected Jesus, walking with two disciples, "made as though he would have gone further" as they neared their village [[Luke 24:28]]. In a more tense scene, when the scribes and Pharisees brought a woman to Jesus to test him, he responded by stooping to write on the ground, "as though he heard them not" [[John 8:6]], strategically ignoring their provocative question.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G4364}}` is used, particularly in the account from John's Gospel:
* `{{G3985}}` **peirázō** (to test, tempt): This word establishes the motive of Jesus's challengers, who spoke to him specifically for the purpose of "tempting him" [[John 8:6]].
* `{{G2723}}` **katēgoréō** (to accuse): The ultimate goal of the test was to find a reason "to accuse him" [[John 8:6]], making Jesus's disengagement a direct response to a malicious intent.
* `{{G2955}}` **kýptō** (to stoop down): This describes the physical posture Jesus assumed as he pretended not to hear, as he "stooped down" to write on the ground [[John 8:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4364}}` is found in its strategic use within the narrative.
* **Strategic Disengagement:** Jesus's action in John's Gospel is a method of defusing a hostile trap. By pretending not to hear, he refuses to engage with his accusers on their terms, which were designed to "tempt" and "accuse" him [[John 8:6]].
* **Invitation to Faith:** In Luke's Gospel, Jesus's feigned intention to continue his journey is not a deception but an action that prompts a response from his disciples. It draws out their desire for him to remain, leading them to urge him to stay with them [[Luke 24:28]].
* **Revealing True Motives:** In both instances, the use of `{{G4364}}` serves to expose the hearts of those interacting with Jesus. It reveals the malice of those seeking to accuse him and the burgeoning faith of those who desire his fellowship.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4364}}` is a rarely used term, its appearances are pivotal. It is not about deceit but about purposeful action. Whether used to disarm an accuser [[John 8:6]] or to invite a deeper commitment from a follower [[Luke 24:28]], **prospoiéomai** demonstrates a sophisticated and intentional form of interaction that bypasses verbal conflict to address the heart of a matter.
TRV