### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prósphatos**, represented by `{{G4372}}`, describes something that is **new**. Its definition, "previously (recently) slain (fresh), i.e. (figuratively) lately made," indicates a recent or fresh quality. This term is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4372}}` is in [[Hebrews 10:20]], where it is used to describe the path to God opened by Christ. The verse speaks of "a **new** and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh" [[Hebrews 10:20]]. Here, **new** signifies that this access is recently established and fresh, distinct from any previous means of approaching God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[Hebrews 10:20]] help clarify the meaning of this **new** way:
* `{{G1457}}` **enkainízō** (to renew, i.e. inaugurate:--consecrate, dedicate): This word describes the action taken upon the new way. It was **consecrated**, or dedicated, for believers [[Hebrews 10:20]].
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live (literally or figuratively):--life(-time), (a-)live(-ly), quick): This term is paired directly with **prósphatos** to describe the way as both "new and **living**" [[Hebrews 10:20]], highlighting its dynamic and life-giving nature.
* `{{G2665}}` **katapétasma** (something spread thoroughly, i.e. (specially) the door screen (to the Most Holy Place) in the Jewish Temple:--vail): This is the barrier through which the new way was opened. The passage identifies the **vail** with Christ's flesh [[Hebrews 10:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4372}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Freshly Opened Access:** The definition "recently slain" or "lately made" points directly to the new covenant established by Christ's sacrifice. The way is **new** because it was just opened, contrasting with the old system [[Hebrews 10:20]].
* **A Consecrated Way:** The path is not just new, but it has been formally **consecrated** `{{G1457}}` for believers, setting it apart as holy and divinely sanctioned [[Hebrews 10:20]].
* **Passage through the Veil:** This **new** way leads believers through the **vail** `{{G2665}}`, which represents Christ's flesh. The tearing of the temple **vail** at the crucifixion [[Matthew 27:51]] is the historical event that this spiritual reality reflects, opening direct access to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4372}}` **prósphatos**, though appearing only once, is a critical term for understanding the believer's access to God. Its use in [[Hebrews 10:20]] defines a way that is not only **living** but also **newly** made and consecrated. It moves beyond a generic idea of "newness" to carry the specific connotation of a path freshly opened through the "recently slain" body of Christ, forever changing the relationship between humanity and God.
TRV