neuter of πρῶτος as adverb (with or without ὁ); firstly (in time, place, order, or importance):--before, at the beginning, chiefly (at, at the) first (of all).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prōton**, represented by `{{G4412}}`, is an adverb used to signify that which is **firstly** in time, place, order, or importance. It appears **61 times** across **61 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning extends to concepts like "before," "at the beginning," and "chiefly," establishing it as a crucial word for understanding sequence, priority, and prerequisites in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4412}}` is used to establish a necessary order of events or priorities. It functions as a prerequisite, such as when stating that a strong man must **first** be bound before his house can be spoiled [[Mark 3:27]]. It also denotes a sequence in God's redemptive plan, with the gospel being delivered "to the Jew **first**, and also to the Greek" [[Romans 1:16]]. Furthermore, it is used to define the order of eschatological events, clarifying that the dead in Christ will rise **first** at the Lord's return [[1 Thessalonians 4:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to build upon the concepts of sequence and order:
* `{{G1208}}` **deúteros**: This ordinal word for **second** is often used in conjunction with `{{G4412}}` to create a clear sequence, as seen in the ordering of spiritual gifts in the church [[1 Corinthians 12:28]].
* `{{G1899}}` **épeita**: Meaning **thereafter** or "then," this adverb follows `{{G4412}}` to show what comes after the initial action or state. For example, the wisdom from above is **first** pure, **then** peaceable [[James 3:17]].
* `{{G756}}` **árchomai**: This verb, meaning to **commence** or "begin," relates to the starting point implied by "first." It is used in the context of judgment, which must **first begin** at the house of God [[1 Peter 4:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4412}}` is significant, as it structures key divine principles and commands.
* **Principle of Divine Priority:** The word establishes the primary focus for a believer's life in the command to "seek ye **first** the kingdom of God, and his righteousness" [[Matthew 6:33]]. This sets a non-negotiable spiritual priority over all worldly concerns.
* **Order of God's Redemptive Plan:** The pattern of delivering a message or judgment "to the Jew **first**, and also to the Gentile" is a recurring theme that outlines the historical progression of God's work [[Romans 2:9-10]].
* **Eschatological Sequence:** The term is vital for understanding the timeline of end-time events. A "falling away" must come **first** before the man of sin is revealed [[2 Thessalonians 2:3]], and the dead in Christ will rise **first** at his coming [[1 Thessalonians 4:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4412}}` is far more than a simple adverb of time. It is a cornerstone for understanding biblical commands, redemptive history, and prophecy. By indicating what is **chiefly** important, what must come **before** other things, or what occurs **at the beginning** of a sequence, **prōton** provides a framework of divine order. It shows how God acts with purpose and sequence, and how believers are called to live with holy priorities.
TRV