The Greek word prosōpolēptéō, represented by G4380, is a specific term meaning to favor an individual or show partiality. Its definition is derived from προσωπολήπτης, and it is most commonly translated as to "have respect to persons." This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, yet its singular use carries significant theological weight.
The sole appearance of G4380 is in the book of James. The verse states that if you have respect to persons, you commit sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors James 2:9. In this context, the act of showing partiality is not treated as a minor social faux pas but is directly equated with sin and a violation of the law. It establishes a clear and serious prohibition against favoritism.
Several related words in its only context clarify the gravity of showing partiality:
- G266 hamartía (a sin): This word defines the direct consequence of the action. To have respect to persons is to commit sin James 2:9, placing it in the same category as other moral offenses for which the wages are death Romans 6:23.
- G3551 nómos (law): This is the standard against which partiality is judged. By showing favoritism, a person is convinced by the law as a violator James 2:9. The law serves as a principle that reveals this transgression, similar to the law of sin and death mentioned in Romans 8:2.
- G3848 parabátēs (a violator): This is the identity one assumes when practicing partiality. The act makes someone a transgressor of the law James 2:9. This status is also applied to someone who, for example, commits murder even while refraining from adultery, thereby breaking the whole law James 2:11.
The theological weight of G4380 is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
- Partiality is Sin: The primary point is the explicit equation of showing favoritism with committing sin G266. It is not merely an unwise or unkind action but a spiritual offense James 2:9.
- A Breach of Law: The act of partiality constitutes a transgression against the law G3551. This links a specific social behavior directly to the violation of a divine standard, making the person a transgressor G3848.
- Conviction by a Standard: The law is presented as the agent that convinces G1651, or rebukes, the one who shows partiality. This underscores the law's function in exposing and admonishing sin James 2:9.
In summary, G4380 is a highly specific term whose importance far outweighs its frequency. Though used only once, prosōpolēptéō serves as a potent theological anchor in scripture, defining the act of showing partiality as a direct sin and a violation of the law. Its context in James 2:9 leaves no ambiguity, presenting a clear command against favoritism and framing it as an action that makes one a transgressor in the eyes of God.
TRV