### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **proteínō**, represented by `{{G4385}}`, means to **bind** or **tie prostrate**, specifically for the purpose of scourging. It is derived from πρό and a word meaning "to stretch." This specific term appears **2 times** within a single verse in the Bible, highlighting a very particular action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4385}}` occurs in [[Acts 22:25]], a critical moment in the Apostle Paul's ministry. As they **bound** him with thongs to prepare for a scourging, Paul challenges the centurion standing by. He questions the legality of scourging a man who is a Roman and who remains uncondemned. The word `{{G4385}}` thus captures the physical act of being stretched and tied that immediately precedes Paul’s pivotal legal appeal to his Roman citizenship, halting the punishment before it could begin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this passage illuminate the context of being **bound**:
* `{{G3147}}` **mastízō** (to scourge): This verb defines the intended purpose for which Paul was being **bound**. The binding was the preparation for this specific form of punishment.
* `{{G2438}}` **himás** (thong): This noun identifies the instrument used to **bind** him. The verse explicitly states they **bound** him with thongs [[Acts 22:25]].
* `{{G178}}` **akatákritos** (uncondemned): This term provides the legal basis for Paul's objection. To **bind** and scourge a Roman citizen without a proper trial was unlawful.
* `{{G1543}}` **hekatontárchēs** (centurion): This word identifies the Roman officer to whom Paul protested, the authority overseeing the act of binding.
### Theological Significance
While rare, the use of `{{G4385}}` underscores important narrative and legal themes in the book of Acts.
* **Assertion of Rights:** The physical act of being **bound** `{{G4385}}` serves as the catalyst for Paul to declare his rights as a Roman `{{G4514}}`. This action demonstrates how his civic status was used to navigate persecution [[Acts 22:25]].
* **Law and Justice:** The term is embedded in a confrontation over what is lawful `{{G1832}}`. To **bind** an uncondemned `{{G178}}` Roman citizen for scourging was an illegal act, and Paul's protest highlights the tension between Roman law and the actions of officials.
* **Impending Suffering:** The word signifies the imminent threat of physical punishment. The intent to **scourge** `{{G3147}}` after binding him connects this moment to the larger theme of the suffering and persecution faced by the apostles.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4385}}` is a specific verb describing the act of being **bound** for punishment. Though it appears in only one verse, its context in [[Acts 22:25]] is crucial. It marks the moment where the Apostle Paul invokes his Roman citizenship to prevent an unlawful scourging, illustrating the intersection of legal rights and divine purpose in the narrative of the early church. The word captures a moment of physical restraint that leads to a powerful assertion of identity and justice.
TRV