Brief Overview of πρᾶξις (Strong’s G4234: praxis)

Strong’s G4234: A noun meaning “deed,” “action,” or “practice,” derived from prassō (to do, practice). In New Testament usage, describes both single actions and habitual practices, often with moral implications. Particularly significant in contexts of divine judgment based on human conduct.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πρᾶξις represents concrete actions and established patterns of behavior. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts ranging from divine judgment according to deeds to the renunciation of sinful practices. Early church writers used this term to discuss both moral responsibility and the relationship between faith and works. Today, it reminds us that faith manifests in tangible actions and that our practices reflect our spiritual condition.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πρᾶξις, praxis, PRAX-is
• Detailed pronunciation: PRAX-iss (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• From πράσσω (prassō) – to do, practice
• -σις (-sis) – action noun suffix
• Indicates result or process of action

D – Defining Meanings

• Deed, action
• Practice, habitual behavior
• Function, operation

Translation Options:

• “Deed” – single action emphasis
• “Practice” – habitual behavior
• “Work” – general accomplishment

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἔργον (ergon, ER-gon) – work, deed – See G2041
• ποίημα (poiēma, poy-AY-ma) – work done – See G4161
• πρᾶγμα (pragma, PRAG-ma) – deed, matter – See G4229

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features:

• Gender: Feminine
• Number: Singular/Plural
• Case: All cases possible
• Declension: 3rd declension

Example morphological changes:

• Nominative: πρᾶξις
• Genitive: πράξεως
• Dative: πράξει
• Accusative: πρᾶξιν

Cross-references:

• Related verb: πράσσω (to do)
• Related adjective: πρακτικός (practical)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both single acts and patterns. Thayer’s notes moral implications. LSJ documents wide range of classical usage. Vine’s highlights connection to judgment. Strong’s connects to habitual practice. LEH notes Septuagint patterns. Moulton and Milligan cite documentary evidence.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 16:27: “For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his [πρᾶξις] works.”

Additional References:
Acts 19:18
Romans 8:13
Romans 12:4
Colossians 3:9

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πρᾶξις reminds us that faith and practice are inseparable. While salvation is by grace through faith, our actions reflect our spiritual reality. This word proclaims that following Christ involves both believing and doing, as genuine faith manifests in transformed behavior.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word influenced development of practical theology.
2. Early monastics used it to discuss spiritual disciplines.
3. Modern term “praxis” derives from this Greek word.

Strong’s G4234: A noun meaning “deed,” “action,” or “practice,” derived from prassō (to do, practice). In New Testament usage, describes both single actions and habitual practices, often with moral implications. Particularly significant in contexts of divine judgment based on human conduct.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: deeds, actions, practice, behavior, judgment, moral conduct, works, habits, faith and works, transformation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​