from πρό and φθάνω; to get an earlier start of, i.e. anticipate:--prevent.
Transliteration:prophthánō
Pronunciation:prof-than'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb προφθάνω (prophthánō, `{{G4399}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition πρό (pro, "before") and the verb φθάνω (phthanō, "to arrive," "to come to," "to reach"). Its core meaning encapsulates the idea of acting or arriving *before* someone or something else. This can be understood as "to get an earlier start of," "to anticipate," "to be beforehand with," or "to precede." It conveys the notion of preemptive action or foreknowledge that allows one to act before an expected event or before another person acts. It is crucial to note that the older English translation "prevent," as found in the King James Version, carries the now archaic sense of "to go before" or "to anticipate," rather than the modern meaning of "to hinder" or "to obstruct." Thus, προφθάνω signifies a proactive and timely arrival or action, often demonstrating foresight or initiative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb προφθάνω (prophthánō, `{{G4399}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Matthew:
* **[[Matthew 17:27]]**: "But lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee." (KJV)
In this passage, Jesus is instructing Peter regarding the temple tax. The context is that the tax collectors had approached Peter, asking if Jesus paid the temple tax. Before Peter could even speak to Jesus about it, Jesus *anticipated* or *preempted* Peter's question. The phrase "Jesus *prevented* him" (KJV) or "Jesus *spoke to him first*" (ESV, NASB) directly translates προφθάνω. This single occurrence powerfully illustrates Jesus' divine foreknowledge and authority. He knew what Peter was thinking or about to ask, demonstrating a supernatural insight that transcends ordinary human understanding. The action of "going before" or "anticipating" here highlights Jesus' initiative and control over circumstances, even in seemingly mundane matters like paying a tax.
### Related Words & Concepts
The components of προφθάνω (prophthánō, `{{G4399}}`) themselves shed light on its meaning:
* **πρό (pro, `{{G4253}}`)**: This common Greek preposition signifies "before," "in front of," or "prior to," emphasizing the element of precedence or anticipation inherent in the verb.
* **φθάνω (phthanō, `{{G5348}}`)**: The root verb means "to arrive," "to come to," "to reach," or "to attain." When combined with πρό, it creates the specific nuance of arriving or acting *before* a particular point or person.
Conceptually, προφθάνω relates to:
* **Divine Foreknowledge**: The ability to know events or thoughts before they occur or are expressed.
* **Divine Initiative**: God's proactive engagement in human affairs, often acting before human beings even perceive a need.
* **Providence**: God's benevolent oversight and timely provision.
* **Precedence**: The act of going or coming before another.
It stands in contrast to the modern English meaning of "prevent," which implies hindering. The biblical sense, exemplified by προφθάνω, is about acting *ahead of* or *in anticipation of*, rather than *stopping* or *blocking*.
### Theological Significance
Though found only once, the use of προφθάνω (prophthánō, `{{G4399}}`) in [[Matthew 17:27]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a subtle yet powerful affirmation of Jesus' divine nature.
1. **Divine Foreknowledge**: Jesus' ability to "anticipate" Peter's thought or the need for discussion about the temple tax is a clear demonstration of His omniscience. He knows not only future events but also the unspoken thoughts and intentions of human hearts. This aligns with other instances where Jesus displays supernatural knowledge (e.g., [[John 1:48]], [[John 4:17-18]]).
2. **Sovereignty and Authority**: By acting beforehand, Jesus asserts His authority over circumstances, even mundane ones like the payment of a civil tax. He does not react to the situation but proactively addresses it, demonstrating His control and wisdom.
3. **Proactive Righteousness**: Jesus' instruction to pay the tax, even through a miraculous provision, underscores His commitment to fulfilling all righteousness and avoiding offense (cf. [[Matthew 3:15]]). His "anticipation" allows Him to address the issue in a way that honors both divine and human obligations without stumbling.
4. **Grace and Provision**: The miraculous provision of the coin from the fish's mouth, initiated by Jesus' foreknowledge, highlights God's ability to provide for His people in unexpected ways, often anticipating their needs before they are even fully articulated.
### Summary
The Greek word προφθάνω (prophthánō, `{{G4399}}`) signifies "to anticipate," "to go before," or "to be beforehand with." Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[Matthew 17:27]] is exceptionally significant. Here, Jesus "anticipates" Peter's question regarding the temple tax, demonstrating His divine foreknowledge and supreme authority. This act of "going before" is not about hindering but about proactive engagement and timely action, revealing Jesus' omniscience, His sovereign control over creation, and His commitment to fulfilling righteousness. The study of προφθάνω thus enriches our understanding of Christ's divine nature and His active, anticipatory role in the lives of His disciples and in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
TRV