### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prōtoklisía**, represented by `{{G4411}}`, refers to a reclining first (in the place of honor) at the dinner-bed, or preeminence at meals. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term consistently denotes the most prestigious position at a feast or dinner, often translated as "chief room," "uppermost room," or "highest room."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4411}}` is consistently associated with the desire for public honor and status. It is used to describe the behavior of scribes, who "love... the **chief rooms** at feasts" [[Luke 20:46]]. This desire for the "uppermost rooms" is presented as a characteristic that Jesus critiques [[Matthew 23:6]]. Jesus also uses this concept as the basis for a parable after he "marked how they chose out the **chief rooms**" [[Luke 14:7]]. In this parable, he advises against taking the "highest room" at a wedding, in case a more honorable guest arrives [[Luke 14:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context for seeking preeminence:
* `{{G1122}}` **grammateús** (a writer, i.e. (professionally) scribe or secretary): The scribes are identified as a group that actively desires these places of honor, alongside greetings in the markets and the highest seats in synagogues [[Luke 20:46]].
* `{{G1173}}` **deîpnon** (dinner, i.e. the chief meal (usually in the evening):--feast, supper): This is the specific setting where the "uppermost rooms" are sought, highlighting the social nature of this pursuit of status [[Mark 12:39]].
* `{{G1586}}` **eklégomai** (middle voice from ἐκ and λέγω (in its primary sense); to select): This word describes the deliberate action of the guests. Jesus put forth a parable when he marked how they "chose out" the chief rooms [[Luke 14:7]].
* `{{G4410}}` **prōtokathedría** (a sitting first (in the front row), i.e. preeminence in council): Often paired with `{{G4411}}`, this term for "chief seats" shows a broader pattern of seeking honor, both at feasts and within the synagogues [[Matthew 23:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4411}}` is tied directly to the sin of pride and the virtue of humility.
* **A Symbol of Pride:** The desire for the "chief rooms" is presented as a tangible expression of a prideful heart. Jesus warns his followers to beware of the scribes who love these positions [[Luke 20:46]].
* **A Lesson in Humility:** The pursuit of the `{{G4411}}` serves as a negative example in Jesus' teaching. He uses a parable about a wedding guest to illustrate that one should not seek the "highest room" but rather wait to be honored by the host [[Luke 14:8]].
* **Contrast with Kingdom Values:** The act of choosing a place of honor is depicted as a worldly value that is contrary to the principles of God's kingdom. Jesus observed this behavior and used it to deliver a parable teaching a different way [[Luke 14:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4411}}` is more than a term for a seating arrangement; it is a symbol of worldly ambition and pride. Its use in the Gospels consistently highlights a human desire for preeminence that Jesus contrasts with the humility required of his followers. The word serves as a key element in his teachings against self-exaltation, illustrating how the pursuit of social honor is at odds with true honor from God.
TRV