### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **próschysis**, represented by `{{G4378}}`, means **sprinkling**. It is derived from words meaning "to shed forth" or "pour," indicating an act of affusion. This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4378}}` is in [[Hebrews 11:28]], which states, "Through faith he kept the passover, and the **sprinkling** of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them." In this context, **sprinkling** is a specific action performed as an expression of faith. It refers to the application of blood during the first Passover, an act that was essential for protecting the firstborn of Israel from the destroyer. The verse explicitly links this act to both the Passover observance and the faith that motivated it.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of `{{G4378}}`:
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): This is the substance used in the **sprinkling**. It is defined as "blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of Christ)." In other contexts, it is linked to redemption and being washed from sin ([[Ephesians 1:7]], [[Revelation 1:5]]).
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): This is the means by which the act of **sprinkling** was made effective. It is defined as "persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction... especially reliance upon Christ for salvation" [[Hebrews 11:1]].
* `{{G3957}}` **páscha** (passover): This is the event during which the **sprinkling** took place. It refers to "the Passover (the meal, the day, the festival or the special sacrifices connected with it)." It is identified elsewhere as a type, with Christ being "our **passover**" [[1 Corinthians 5:7]].
* `{{G2345}}` **thingánō** (touch): This is what the **sprinkling** prevented. It means "to manipulate, i.e. have to do with; by implication, to injure" [[Hebrews 12:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4378}}` is demonstrated in its single use:
* **An Act of Faith:** The **sprinkling** was not merely a ritual but a physical outworking of faith `{{G4102}}`. It was the obedience described in [[Hebrews 11:28]] that marked it as an act of trust in God's promise of protection.
* **Protection Through Blood:** The word highlights the theme of deliverance. The application of blood `{{G129}}` served as a sign that kept the destroyer `{{G3645}}` from harming the firstborn `{{G4416}}`, demonstrating the life-saving power inherent in the applied sacrifice.
* **A Passover Symbol:** Used in the context of the Passover `{{G3957}}`, the act of **sprinkling** is fundamentally linked to God's redemptive plan. It points to a greater truth about being covered and protected by sacrificial blood.
### Summary
In summary, though **próschysis** `{{G4378}}` is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its role is pivotal. It encapsulates the relationship between faith and action in God's plan of salvation. The word powerfully illustrates how the physical application of blood during the Passover was a profound act of faith that resulted in divine protection, serving as a cornerstone for understanding atonement and deliverance.
TRV