### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prosphorá**, represented by `{{G4376}}`, is derived from `prosphérō` and refers to a **presentation**, an **oblation**, or a **sacrifice**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. While it can denote a general or ceremonial offering, its most significant use is to describe a specific, decisive sacrifice made to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4376}}` is used in several contexts. It can refer to tangible gifts, such as when Paul came to bring alms and **offerings** to his nation [[Acts 24:17]]. It is also used for ceremonial acts, like the **offering** required after the days of purification in the temple [[Acts 21:26]]. However, its primary use is to define the work of Christ. His sacrifice is described as an **offering** and a sacrifice to God [[Ephesians 5:2]]. This single **offering** of Christ’s body is what sanctifies believers [[Hebrews 10:10]] and has perfected them forever [[Hebrews 10:14]], rendering the old system of sacrifice obsolete [[Hebrews 10:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of offerings and their purpose:
* `{{G4374}}` **prosphérō** (to bear towards, i.e. lead to, tender (especially to God), treat): As the root verb of `prosphorá`, this word signifies the action of presenting. It is used in [[Acts 21:26]], which states an **offering** `{{G4376}}` should be **offered** `{{G4374}}` for those completing purification.
* `{{G2378}}` **thysía** (sacrifice (the act or the victim, literally or figuratively)): This term is often paired with `prosphorá` to emphasize the sacrificial nature of the act. Christ gave himself as an **offering** `{{G4376}}` and a **sacrifice** `{{G2378}}` [[Ephesians 5:2]].
* `{{G37}}` **hagiázō** (to make holy, i.e. (ceremonially) purify or consecrate; (mentally) to venerate): This describes a key result of the offering. Believers are **sanctified** `{{G37}}` through the **offering** `{{G4376}}` of the body of Jesus Christ [[Hebrews 10:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4376}}` is immense, centered on the finality and efficacy of Christ's work.
* **Christ's Ultimate Sacrifice:** The term is used to define Christ's death as the "one **offering**" that has permanently "perfected for ever them that are sanctified" [[Hebrews 10:14]]. This act is presented as a "sweetsmelling savour" to God [[Ephesians 5:2]].
* **The Basis of Sanctification:** The **offering** of Christ's body is the direct means by which believers are made holy [[Hebrews 10:10]]. This principle extends to the church, as the **offering up** of the Gentiles is made acceptable by being "sanctified by the Holy Ghost" [[Romans 15:16]].
* **Fulfillment of the Law:** `{{G4376}}` is pivotal in contrasting the new covenant with the old. God is said to have no desire for the repeated sacrifice and **offering** under the law ([[Hebrews 10:5]], [[Hebrews 10:8]]), establishing that after Christ's sacrifice, there is "no more **offering** for sin" [[Hebrews 10:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4376}}` is far more than a simple presentation. It encompasses a range of actions, from ceremonial gifts [[Acts 21:26]] to the central, theological act of Christ's atoning death. Its greatest significance lies in defining the singular **offering** of Jesus Christ, which fulfills the requirements of the law, provides the permanent basis for the sanctification of believers, and fundamentally redefines the relationship between God and humanity.
TRV