προηγέομαι
proēgéomai
G4285 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To go before, to take the lead, to lead the way (both literally and figuratively); especially, to show esteem or give precedence to someone by placing them ahead, often in the sense of showing respect or deference. In Koine usage, most often used in the figurative sense of regarding others as more worthy or giving preference to them.
Semantic Range
to go before, to lead the way, to set an example, to show deference, to give preference, to take the initiative in honoring others
Root / Etymology
Compound of πρό (before, ahead) and ἡγέομαι (to lead, to consider, to think).
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, προηγέομαι is used both in literal contexts (to lead or go ahead of others physically) and in figural senses (to take the initiative or to set an example). In Hellenistic and Roman contexts, the sense of giving preference or deference becomes more prominent, especially in moral exhortation literature and in the New Testament (e.g., Romans 12:10). Here, it does not imply mere outward honor but rather the deliberate act of treating others with higher regard. English translations often render the word as 'prefer,' 'give honor,' or 'show deference,' but the nuance of taking the lead in honoring others is sometimes lost. The term is related to social and ethical teachings about community conduct, where those addressed are urged to take the initiative in showing respect and to lead in acts of honor, rather than wait to be honored themselves. It is distinct from simple notions of preference, carrying a sense of active precedence in respect.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from πρό and ἡγέομαι; to lead the way for others, i.e. show deference:--prefer.
Root Family
προηγέομαι (proēgeomai) — to go before, to lead, to put ahead
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4285-01 |
προηγούμενοι | proegoumenoi | V PRS MID PTCP NOM M PL |
preferring | those giving preference | those giving preference | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4285-01 |
Romans 12:10 | προηγούμενοι | proegoumenoi | V PRS MID PTCP NOM M PL |
preferring | those giving preference | those giving preference |