### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **protássō**, represented by `{{G4384}}`, means **to pre-arrange, i.e. prescribe**. Its definition is derived from the components πρό (before) and τάσσω (to arrange). This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage highly significant for understanding its precise meaning of something being appointed beforehand.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G4384}}` is found in a discourse by the Apostle Paul. In [[Acts 17:26]], it is stated that God "hath determined the times **before appointed**" for all the nations of men. This places the concept of pre-arrangement directly in the context of God's sovereignty over human history, indicating that the specific eras and seasons for every nation were prescribed by Him in advance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same context help clarify the scope of this divine pre-arrangement:
* `{{G3724}}` **horízō** (to mark out or bound, appoint, decree): This word appears directly with `{{G4384}}` in [[Acts 17:26]], emphasizing that the times were not only "before appointed" but also actively "determined" by God. It is also used for God’s "determinate counsel" [[Acts 2:23]] and for His ordaining of Jesus as Judge [[Acts 10:42]].
* `{{G3734}}` **horothesía** (a limit-placing, boundary-line): Also used in [[Acts 17:26]], this term refers to "the **bounds** of their habitation." It shows that God's pre-arrangement extends not just to time but also to the physical and geographical boundaries of nations.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4384}}` centers on the absolute sovereignty of God.
* **Sovereignty Over Time:** The word's core meaning of pre-arranging, especially in its context in [[Acts 17:26]], establishes that the appointed times and historical seasons for nations are not random but are prescribed by God.
* **Sovereignty Over Place:** Used alongside `{{G3734}}` ("bounds"), it demonstrates that God's authority extends to the specific geographical locations and limits of the nations He created.
* **Divine Decree:** The concept is reinforced by the related word `{{G3724}}`, which is used to describe God’s determined plan for Christ’s path [[Luke 22:22]] and His role as Judge [[Acts 17:31]], showing that this pre-arrangement is part of a comprehensive divine decree.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4384}}` is a precise and potent term. Though it appears only once, its placement in [[Acts 17:26]] provides a concise and powerful declaration of God’s role as the one who pre-arranges the timeline of human history. Paired with associated terms for determining and setting boundaries, it defines a foundational aspect of God's sovereignty over all nations, both in their appointed times and their designated places.
TRV