### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **πρώϊμος (prṓïmos)**, represented by `{{G4406}}`, refers to something that is **early**. Its definition indicates a connection to dawning or, by analogy, the autumnal showering that marks the first of the rainy season. This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G4406}}` is used to illustrate the concept of patient endurance. James encourages the brethren to be patient until the coming of the Lord, drawing an analogy to a **husbandman** `{{G1092}}` who waits for the **precious** `{{G5093}}` **fruit** `{{G2590}}` of the **earth** `{{G1093}}`. This waiting process depends on receiving both the **early** `{{G4406}}` and **latter** `{{G3797}}` **rain** `{{G5205}}`, highlighting the necessity of the first rains for the agricultural cycle to begin [[James 5:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help to contextualize the meaning of `{{G4406}}`:
* `{{G3797}}` **ópsimos** (latter): This word, meaning later or vernal showering, is used in direct parallel with `{{G4406}}` to complete the picture of the full rainy season necessary for a harvest [[James 5:7]].
* `{{G5205}}` **hyetós** (rain): This is the noun modified by **prṓïmos**, referring to a shower. The arrival of **rain** is what the husbandman waits for to ensure the earth will produce its fruit ([[James 5:7]], [[Hebrews 6:7]]).
* `{{G1092}}` **geōrgós** (husbandman): The farmer or land-worker is the central figure in the analogy. It is the **husbandman** who waits with long patience for the early rain [[James 5:7]].
* `{{G3114}}` **makrothyméō** (to be long-spirited, patient): This verb describes the action required while awaiting the **early** rain. It is the central exhortation of the passage, linking the farmer's patience to the believer's endurance ([[James 5:7]], [[James 5:8]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4406}}` is found in its metaphorical application.
* **Symbol of Divine Provision:** The **early** rain represents the necessary and timely provision of God. Just as the **husbandman** `{{G1092}}` depends on this rain to begin the process of cultivation, the believer relies on God's initial work to prepare the heart for spiritual fruitfulness [[James 5:7]].
* **A Call to Patient Waiting:** The passage uses the farmer's patient wait for the **early** rain as an exhortation for believers to endure patiently until the **coming** `{{G3952}}` of the **Lord** `{{G2962}}`. It teaches that spiritual maturity, like a harvest, follows a divine schedule that cannot be rushed [[James 5:7]].
* **Foundation for Future Harvest:** The **early** rain is indispensable for the eventual **precious** `{{G5093}}` **fruit** `{{G2590}}`. It is the first step in a process that culminates with the **latter** `{{G3797}}` rain, symbolizing that God's work is complete and faithful from beginning to end [[James 5:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4406}}` is a rare biblical term whose significance is amplified through its singular, metaphorical use. Literally denoting the **early** or autumnal rain, it serves in Scripture as a powerful illustration of the need for patience and trust in God's timing. The example of the husbandman waiting for the **early** rain before a harvest instructs believers to wait patiently for the coming of the Lord, confident in His provision to bring forth precious spiritual fruit [[James 5:7]].
TRV