Brief Overview of πρᾶγμα (Strong’s G4229: pragma)
Strong’s G4229: A noun meaning “deed,” “matter,” or “thing,” derived from prassō (to do, practice). Used in New Testament contexts for concrete actions, legal matters, and spiritual realities. Often carries implications of practical manifestation or accomplishment of something.
U- Unveiling the Word
Πρᾶγμα represents tangible reality, whether physical actions, legal matters, or spiritual truths made manifest. In the New Testament, it ranges from everyday matters to profound spiritual realities, particularly in Hebrews where it describes faith’s substance. Early church writers employed this term to discuss the concrete expression of spiritual truths. Today, it reminds us that faith and spiritual realities have practical manifestations in daily life.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: πρᾶγμα, pragma, PRAG-ma
- Detailed pronunciation: PRAHG-mah (stress on first syllable)
- Part of Speech: Noun
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Etymology:
- From πράσσω (prassō) – to do, practice
- -μα (-ma) – noun suffix indicating result
- Shows result of action
D – Defining Meanings
- Matter, affair
- Deed, action
- Thing, reality
Translation Options:
- “Matter” – general usage
- “Deed” – action emphasis
- “Reality” – concrete manifestation
E – Exploring Similar Words
- ἔργον (ergon, ER-gon) – work, deed – See G2041
- πρᾶξις (praxis, PRAX-is) – action, deed – See G4234
- χρῆμα (chrēma, KHRAY-ma) – thing, matter – See G5536
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Morphological Features:
- Gender: Neuter
- Number: Singular/Plural
- Case: All cases
- Declension: 3rd declension
Example morphological changes:
- Nominative: πρᾶγμα
- Genitive: πράγματος
- Dative: πράγματι
- Accusative: πρᾶγμα
Cross-references:
- Related verb: πράσσω (to do)
- Related adjective: πραγματικός (practical)
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes concrete manifestation. Thayer’s notes range from business to spiritual matters. LSJ documents extensive legal usage. Vine’s highlights its practical nature. Strong’s connects it to accomplished deeds. LEH notes Septuagint usage for real events. Moulton and Milligan cite business documents.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
Matthew 18:19: “Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any [πρᾶγμα] thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.”
Additional References:
Luke 1:1
Acts 5:4
Romans 16:2
Hebrews 6:18
Hebrews 10:1
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
Author: Work | Text |
---|---|
Plato: Republic | “Justice is a [πρᾶγμα] matter of the greatest importance.” |
Demosthenes: Orations | “The [πρᾶγμα] affair requires careful consideration.” |
Thucydides: History | “They discussed the [πρᾶγμα] matter at length.” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
Πρᾶγμα bridges the gap between abstract truth and concrete reality. From prayer agreements to faith’s substance, it reminds us that spiritual truths have practical manifestations. This word proclaims that God’s kingdom involves real actions and tangible expressions of divine reality.
D – Did You Know?
- Ancient legal documents frequently used this term.
- Early Christian apologetics employed it for factual evidence.
- It influenced development of practical theology terminology.
Strong’s G4229: A noun meaning “deed,” “matter,” or “thing,” derived from prassō (to do, practice). Used in New Testament contexts for concrete actions, legal matters, and spiritual realities. Often carries implications of practical manifestation or accomplishment of something.
Part of speech: Noun
Tags: deed, matter, reality, practice, manifestation, legal matters, concrete action, spiritual reality, accomplishment, practical faith
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