Brief Overview of πρηνής (Strong’s G4248: prēnēs)

Strong’s G4248: An adjective meaning “headlong” or “falling forward face down.” In ancient Greek literature, it described both physical position and metaphorical downfall. Its sole New Testament appearance in Acts 1:18 vividly describes Judas’s death, emphasizing the tragic end of betrayal.

U- Unveiling the Word

πρηνής carries both literal and metaphorical significance in describing a headlong fall or prone position. In its only New Testament appearance, it describes the death of Judas Iscariot, providing a stark physical detail that underscores the spiritual catastrophe of betraying Christ. Early church writers often used this word when discussing the consequences of apostasy and betrayal. The term’s vivid imagery served as a warning about the serious nature of turning away from truth. Today, this word continues to remind us of the gravity of spiritual choices and their consequences.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πρηνής, prēnēs, pray-NACE
• Detailed Pronunciation: pray (as in ‘pray’) + nace (as in ‘face’)
• Part of Speech: Adjective

Etymology:

• Root: πρη- (prē-) – forward
• Suffix: -νής (-nēs) – forms adjectives describing position or direction
• The combination describes forward-falling position

D – Defining Meanings

• Headlong
• Face down
• Falling forward
• Prone

For compound words:
Not a compound word, but expresses a specific directional concept.

Translation Options:

1. Headlong – Best captures both physical and metaphorical meaning
2. Face down – Describes the resulting position
3. Falling forward – Emphasizes the motion aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὕπτιος (huptios) [HUP-tee-os] – lying on one’s back, opposite position
• καταπίπτω (katapiptō) [ka-ta-PIP-to] – to fall down, more general falling
• See G4248

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an adjective:

• Case: Various forms
• Nominative: πρηνής
• Genitive: πρηνοῦς
• Dative: πρηνεῖ
• Accusative: πρηνῆ
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Gender: All genders
• Declension: Third declension

Cross-references:

• Related adverb: πρηνῶς (headlong manner)
• Related verb: πρηνίζω (to throw headlong)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its physical meaning of falling forward. Thayer’s notes its use in describing fatal falls. LSJ documents its metaphorical usage in classical literature. Vine’s connects it to sudden, violent motion. Moulton and Milligan note its rare occurrence in papyri, suggesting its specialized nature.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Now this man acquired a field with the reward of his wickedness, and falling [πρηνής] headlong he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out.” Acts 1:18

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence of πρηνής in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πρηνής graphically illustrates the tragic end of one who betrayed the King of Kings. It proclaims the good news by contrast, showing the devastating consequences of rejecting Christ while highlighting the mercy available to those who remain faithful. This word serves as both warning and invitation, reminding us that our response to Jesus has eternal significance.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ancient Greek medical texts used this term to describe specific types of fatal injuries.
2. Early Christian art sometimes depicted Judas’s death using this precise posture.
3. The word influenced medieval morality plays’ staging of betrayal scenes.

Strong’s G4248: An adjective meaning “headlong” or “falling forward face down.” In ancient Greek literature, it described both physical position and metaphorical downfall. Its sole New Testament appearance in Acts 1:18 vividly describes Judas’s death, emphasizing the tragic end of betrayal.

Part of speech: Adjective

Tags: headlong, falling, position, Judas, betrayal, consequences, tragic end, physical description, Acts narrative, judgment, biblical keywords​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​