from πρός and τίθημι; to place additionally, i.e. lay beside, annex, repeat:--add, again, give more, increase, lay unto, proceed further, speak to any more.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prostíthēmi**, represented by `{{G4369}}`, means to place additionally, annex, or repeat. It appears **20 times** across **18 unique verses**, conveying concepts of adding to something, increasing a quality, or proceeding to do something again. Its core idea is that of addition, whether it be people, possessions, or actions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4369}}` is used to describe both divine and human actions of addition. A significant usage is found in the book of Acts, where the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` sovereignly **added** believers to the early church [[Acts 2:47]]. This growth is detailed as thousands were **added** on a single day [[Acts 2:41]], and later, multitudes of both **men** `{{G435}}` and **women** `{{G1135}}` were **added** to the Lord [[Acts 5:14]]. Jesus uses the word to make a point about earthly anxieties, asking who by worrying can **add** a single cubit to their stature ([[Matthew 6:27]], [[Luke 12:25]]). The apostles also use it in a plea for spiritual growth, asking the Lord, "**Increase** our **faith**" [[Luke 17:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which things are added or increased:
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (Lord): This term for one who is "supreme in authority" is crucial, as it is the **Lord** who is repeatedly identified as the one who **added** believers to the church ([[Acts 2:47]], [[Acts 11:24]]).
* `{{G932}}` **basileía** (kingdom): This word for "rule" or "realm" establishes a divine priority. Believers are told to first seek the **kingdom** of God, and then all other necessary things will be **added** to them ([[Matthew 6:33]], [[Luke 12:31]]).
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): Defined as "moral conviction" or "reliance upon Christ," **faith** is the specific quality the **apostles** `{{G652}}` asked the Lord to **increase** in them [[Luke 17:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4369}}` is evident in several key areas.
* **Divine Sovereignty in Salvation:** The use of the word in Acts underscores that the growth of the church is a divine work. It is the Lord who **added** to the church daily those who were being **saved** `{{G4982}}`, highlighting God's active role in drawing people to Himself [[Acts 2:47]].
* **God's Provision:** The promise that things "shall be **added**" to those who seek God's **kingdom** `{{G932}}` first establishes a principle of divine care and provision, moving the focus from earthly worry to spiritual priority [[Matthew 6:33]].
* **Redemptive-Historical Purpose:** In Galatians, the Law is described as having been **added** because of transgressions until the promised seed would **come** `{{G2064}}`. This places the Law as a temporary, additional component in God's plan, subordinate to the promise made to Abraham [[Galatians 3:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4369}}` moves beyond a simple mathematical function. It describes the dynamic action of God in building His church, providing for His followers, and unfolding His historical purposes. Whether it is believers being **added** to the Lord, provisions being **added** to the faithful, or the Law being **added** for a time, the word consistently points to an action that builds upon, and is often initiated by, a divine plan.
TRV