Brief Overview of πόρρω (Strong’s G4206: porrō)

Strong’s G4206: An adverb meaning “far, far off, at a distance,” used both literally and metaphorically. In New Testament usage, particularly significant in describing spiritual distance from God. Appears in Jesus’ quotation of Isaiah regarding those whose hearts are far from God despite outward religiosity.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πόρρω expresses both physical and spiritual distance. In the New Testament, its most significant usage is metaphorical, describing the spiritual condition of those who maintain religious appearances while their hearts remain distant from God. Jesus uses it when quoting Isaiah to critique empty religious observance. Early church writers employed this term to discuss the gap between mere religious formality and genuine spiritual devotion. Today, it continues to challenge believers about authentic relationship with God versus superficial religion.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πόρρω, porrō, POR-rho
• Detailed pronunciation: POHR-rho (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Adverb

Etymology:

• Root: πρό (pro) – before, forward
• Extended form with intensified meaning
• Related to Sanskrit para (far)

D – Defining Meanings

• Far away
• At a distance
• Remote (physically or spiritually)

Translation Options:

• “Far from” – emphasizes distance
• “Remote from” – implies separation
• “Distant from” – captures both physical and spiritual meaning

E – Exploring Similar Words

• μακράν (makran, mak-RAHN) – far off, distant – See G3112
• ἀπέχω (apechō, ap-EK-ho) – to be far away – See G568
• χωρίς (chōris, kho-REES) – apart from – See G5565

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an adverb, πόρρω is indeclinable, meaning its form remains constant regardless of its relationship to other words in the sentence.

Comparative forms:

• Positive: πόρρω (far)
• Comparative: πορρώτερον (farther)
• Superlative: πορρώτατα (farthest)

Cross-references:

• Related adjective: πόρρωθεν (from afar)
• Comparative adverb: πορρώτερον (further)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both spatial and metaphorical usage. Thayer’s notes its frequent spiritual application. LSJ documents extensive classical usage. Vine’s highlights its importance in expressing spiritual alienation. Strong’s connects it to forward movement. LEH notes Septuagint usage in prophetic literature. Moulton and Milligan cite examples of distance measurement.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 15:8: “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is [πόρρω] far from me.”

Additional References:
Mark 7:6
Luke 14:32

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πόρρω powerfully exposes the gap between external religion and heart devotion. While it can highlight our distance from God, the gospel promises that through Christ, those who were once far off can be brought near. This word reminds us that true worship is a matter of the heart, not mere outward observance.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was used in ancient surveying to measure distances.
2. Early Christian writers used it to describe the spiritual journey from alienation to intimacy with God.
3. It appears in ancient Jewish-Greek translations describing Israel’s wandering from God.

Strong’s G4206: An adverb meaning “far, far off, at a distance,” used both literally and metaphorically. In New Testament usage, particularly significant in describing spiritual distance from God. Appears in Jesus’ quotation of Isaiah regarding those whose hearts are far from God despite outward religiosity.

Part of speech: Adverb

Tags: distance, separation, spiritual condition, heart worship, formalism, Isaiah quotation, Jesus’ teaching, genuine faith, religious hypocrisy, divine relationship​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​