### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prospsaúō**, represented by `{{G4379}}`, is defined as to impinge, i.e. lay a finger on (in order to relieve):--**touch**. This specific term appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is highly contextual, referring not just to physical contact, but to the act of offering even the slightest assistance or relief.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4379}}` appears in a sharp rebuke from Jesus to the lawyers in [[Luke 11:46]]. He condemns them because they "lade men with burdens grievous to be borne," yet they themselves will not **touch** the burdens with even one of their fingers. The word here illustrates a deliberate refusal to provide any measure of help, highlighting the hypocrisy of imposing difficult requirements on others while being unwilling to offer the smallest amount of support.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its immediate context clarify the meaning of `{{G4379}}`:
* `{{G1419}}` **dysbástaktos**: This word, meaning "oppressive:--grievous to be borne," describes the nature of the burdens. It emphasizes the extreme difficulty of what was being imposed on the people [[Luke 11:46]].
* `{{G5412}}` **phortízō**: Defined as "to load up... to overburden with ceremony (or spiritual anxiety):--lade, by heavy laden," this is the action the lawyers perform. It directly contrasts with their refusal to even **touch** the burdens they create [[Luke 11:46]].
* `{{G5413}}` **phortíon**: This term for "a task or service:--burden" is the object in question. It is these figurative burdens that the lawyers "lade" onto others but will not **touch** themselves [[Luke 11:46]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4379}}` is concentrated in its sole appearance, where it serves as a powerful symbol of religious hypocrisy.
* **Failure of Empathy:** To refuse to even **touch** a burden with a single finger demonstrates a complete lack of compassion and a failure to help carry the weight that spiritual leaders had placed upon others.
* **Hypocrisy in Leadership:** The word is central to Jesus's critique of authority without service. The lawyers were quick to impose rules but completely unwilling to participate in the effort required to follow them [[Luke 11:46]].
* **The Smallest Measure of Aid:** The definition "lay a finger on" implies the most minimal form of assistance. The refusal to perform even this small act underscores the depth of the leaders' indifference to the people's struggles.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4379}}` is a precisely used term that, despite appearing only once, carries significant meaning. It is more than a simple word for contact; it signifies the minimal effort of "laying a finger on" something to help. Its use in [[Luke 11:46]] provides a stark illustration of hypocrisy, contrasting the heavy, grievous burdens placed on people with the utter refusal of religious leaders to offer even the slightest bit of relief.
TRV