Brief Overview of πρᾶος (Strong’s G4235: praos)

Strong’s G4235: An adjective meaning “meek,” “gentle,” or “mild,” characterized by strength under control. When used by Jesus to describe Himself, it represents divine strength exercised with perfect restraint. Represents a key Christian virtue combining power and gentleness.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πρᾶος represents controlled strength rather than weakness, particularly in Greek thought where it described war horses trained to respond to the slightest touch. In the New Testament, Jesus applies it to Himself, revolutionizing the concept of true strength. Early church fathers emphasized this quality as essential to Christian character, distinguishing it from mere passivity. Today, it continues to challenge contemporary notions of power and leadership.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πρᾶος, praos, PRA-os
• Detailed pronunciation: PRAH-oss (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Adjective

Etymology:

• Ancient root unknown
• Related to πραΰς (praus)
• Basic form without prefixes/suffixes

D – Defining Meanings

• Meek
• Gentle
• Strength under control

Translation Options:

• “Meek” – traditional but often misunderstood
• “Gentle” – emphasizes character quality
• “Power under control” – captures full meaning

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πραΰς (praus, prah-OOS) – meek, alternate form – See G4239
• ἐπιεικής (epieikēs, ep-ee-ay-KACE) – gentle, fair – See G1933
• ἤπιος (ēpios, AY-pee-os) – gentle, mild – See G2261

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features:

• Gender: Masculine, Feminine, Neuter forms
• Number: Singular/Plural
• Case: All cases possible
• Declension: 2nd/1st declension

Example morphological changes:

• Masculine: πρᾶος
• Feminine: πραεῖα
• Neuter: πρᾶον

Cross-references:

• Related noun: πραότης (meekness)
• Related adverb: πράως (meekly)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes controlled strength. Thayer’s notes its contrast with anger. LSJ documents classical usage including animal training. Vine’s highlights its connection to Christ’s character. Strong’s connects it to gentle authority. LEH notes Septuagint usage for divine qualities. Moulton and Milligan cite personal character descriptions.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 11:29: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am [πρᾶος] meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”

Additional References:
Matthew 5:5
Matthew 21:5
1 Peter 3:4

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πρᾶος reveals Christ’s revolutionary understanding of true strength. When Jesus describes Himself as meek, He demonstrates that divine power operates through gentleness and self-control. This word proclaims that God’s kingdom advances not through domination but through strength perfectly controlled by love.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ancient Greek horsemen valued πρᾶος in their war horses.
2. Early church martyrs were often described with this term.
3. It influenced medieval concepts of Christian knighthood.

Strong’s G4235: An adjective meaning “meek,” “gentle,” or “mild,” characterized by strength under control. When used by Jesus to describe Himself, it represents divine strength exercised with perfect restraint. Represents a key Christian virtue combining power and gentleness.

Part of speech: Adjective

Tags: meekness, gentleness, strength, self-control, Christ’s character, Beatitudes, Christian virtues, power, humility, divine attributes​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​