The Greek word prosphōnéō, represented by G4377, is defined as "to sound towards, i.e. address, exclaim, summon:--call unto, speak (un-)to." It is formed from the words πρός and φωνέω. This specific term appears 8 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible, signifying a deliberate act of communication directed at an individual or a group.
In the biblical narrative, G4377 is used to denote a call that initiates a significant action or response. Jesus called his disciples to him before he chose and named the twelve apostles Luke 6:13. He also called a woman to him before healing her of her infirmity Luke 13:12. The word describes Paul as he spake to a crowd to gain their silence and attention (Acts 21:40, Acts 22:2). It is also used in a parable to describe children calling to their fellows in the marketplace (Matthew 11:16, Luke 7:32) and by Pilate, who spake again to the crowd in his desire to release Jesus Luke 23:20.
Several related Greek words help clarify the action of speaking and calling:
- G3004 légō (to "lay" forth, i.e. relate): This word often follows G4377, indicating the content of the address. After Paul spake to the people, the text notes him "saying" Acts 21:40.
- G2036 épō (to speak or say): Similar to G3004, this describes the words spoken after a summons. Jesus called the woman to him and then said unto her that she was loosed from her infirmity Luke 13:12.
- G191 akoúō (to hear): This is the direct response to being spoken to. The crowd kept silent when they heard that Paul spake to them in the Hebrew tongue Acts 22:2.
- G3687 onomázō (to name, i.e. assign an appellation): This action can follow a call. Jesus first called his disciples and then named a select group of them apostles Luke 6:13.
The use of G4377 carries specific functional weight in the text. It often serves to mark a pivotal moment.
- A Call to Divine Purpose: The word is used when Jesus summons individuals for a specific, transformative purpose. This is seen when he called his disciples to establish the apostleship Luke 6:13 and when he called the woman to perform a healing Luke 13:12.
- An Act of Public Address: G4377 is employed when a figure of authority addresses a crowd. Paul spake to the people to begin his defense Acts 21:40, and Pilate spake to the multitudes regarding Jesus Luke 23:20.
- Illustrative Communication: The term is used in a parable to illustrate a point. The children calling to each other in the marketplace is used to describe the unresponsiveness of the generation (Matthew 11:16, Luke 7:32).
In summary, G4377 is not merely a word for speaking but rather for a targeted address or summons. It signifies an intentional act of "sounding towards" someone to get their attention, deliver a message, or initiate an event. From the authoritative call of Christ that leads to apostleship and healing, to the public orations of Paul and Pilate, the word consistently highlights a direct and purposeful communication. Even in its parabolic use, it emphasizes a call expecting a response.
TRV