πρᾷος
prâios
G4235
SILEX Entry
Definition
Characterized by gentleness or mildness in disposition, especially in interactions with others; not inclined to anger or harshness. In moral and ethical contexts, it may also connote a willingness to submit, be teachable, or not assert one's own rights over others. In certain contexts, it can further carry the idea of being self-controlled or holding strength under restraint.
Semantic Range
gentle, mild (in disposition or behavior), considerate, self-controlled, meek (in the sense of humble or non-assertive), submissive (in particular ethical or social contexts)
Root / Etymology
Derived as an alternate form or dialectal variant of πραΰς (praus), itself of uncertain origin but well attested in classical Greek, expressing mildness or gentleness. The form πρᾷος likely reflects regional or poetic variation rather than derivation from another Greek or non-Greek root.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term πρᾷος appears as a variant of πραΰς, with essentially the same meaning and is attested in certain dialects and poetic forms. Both words were used in classical Greek literature to describe a personal quality praised in both private and civic life: gentleness as opposed to roughness or severity of disposition (see Plato, Aristotle). In the Hellenistic and New Testament contexts, this gentleness is often linked with other ethical virtues such as humility and patience, forming part of a broader ideal of moral conduct. The English tradition of rendering πραΰς/πρᾷος as 'meek' (notably in translations such as the King James Version) can obscure the sense of energetic self-restraint or quiet strength implied by the Greek. Rather than weakness or passivity, the term indicates an inward calmness and a gracious attitude toward others, even when wronged. Septuagint usage of related terms often translates the Hebrew עָנָו ('anav'), which similarly denotes humble, non-assertive piety. In non-biblical Greek, it also contrasts with harsh, irascible, or overbearing temperaments.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
a form of πραΰς, used in certain parts; gentle, i.e. humble:--meek.
Root Family
πρα- (prâios) — gentle, mild, kind
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 occurrences
No occurrences found.