### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phrónēsis**, represented by `{{G5428}}`, refers to mental action or activity. Its base definition is "intellectual or moral insight," leading to translations such as **prudence** or **wisdom**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** within the biblical text, highlighting its specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G5428}}` describes a particular kind of applied wisdom. In Ephesians, God's grace abounds toward believers in "all wisdom and **prudence**" [[Ephesians 1:8]]. Luke's gospel describes the ministry of John the Baptist as turning "the disobedient to the **wisdom** of the just" [[Luke 1:17]], framing this insight as a hallmark of righteousness and a key element in preparing a people for the Lord.
### Related Words & Concepts
A closely related word helps clarify the meaning of `phrónēsis`:
* `{{G4678}}` **sophía**: Defined as **wisdom** (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual). This term is used alongside `phrónēsis` in [[Ephesians 1:8]], where God grants both "wisdom (`sophía`) and prudence (`phrónēsis`)". This pairing suggests that `sophía` is a foundational wisdom, while `phrónēsis` is the practical insight that applies it. `Sophía` is described as a gift from God [[James 1:5]] and a key aspect of knowing His will [[Colossians 1:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5428}}` is centered on its role as a divine endowment for righteous living.
* **A Grace-Bestowed Insight:** `Phrónēsis` is not a self-generated quality but a gift that God has "abounded toward us" with as part of His grace [[Ephesians 1:8]].
* **The Mindset of the Just:** The term is explicitly connected to the character of the righteous. It represents the moral insight and understanding that the disobedient are called to adopt, signifying a transformation of the heart [[Luke 1:17]].
* **A Practical, Discerning Quality:** The use of `{{G5428}}` for "prudence" implies a functional intelligence. It is the ability to apply spiritual truth to real-life situations, a key aspect of a people "prepared for the Lord" [[Luke 1:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5428}}` **phrónēsis** is a specific and potent term for practical wisdom or prudence. While it appears infrequently, its usage is significant, portraying it as a divine gift that accompanies God's grace [[Ephesians 1:8]] and as the very insight that characterizes a just person [[Luke 1:17]]. It functions as the active, moral intelligence that allows a believer to live righteously.
TRV