Brief Overview of προαιρέω (Strong’s G4255: proaireō)

Strong’s G4255: A compound verb meaning “to choose beforehand” or “to purpose in one’s heart,” combining πρό (before) with αἱρέω (to take/choose). In New Testament usage, it specifically describes deliberate, purposeful choice, especially in the context of generous giving motivated by internal conviction.

U- Unveiling the Word

προαιρέω represents deliberate, premeditated choice arising from internal conviction. In its single New Testament appearance (2 Corinthians 9:7), it describes the heart attitude behind Christian giving, emphasizing that generosity should flow from purposeful decision rather than external pressure. The early church understood this term as expressing the voluntary nature of Christian virtue. Today, this word continues to inform our understanding of Christian stewardship and the importance of heart-motivated giving.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: προαιρέω, proaireō, pro-eye-REH-o
• Detailed Pronunciation: pro (as in ‘protein’) + eye + REH (as in ‘red’) + o (as in ‘go’)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• Prefix: πρό- (pro-) meaning “before”
• Root: αἱρέω (haireō) meaning “to take/choose”
• The combination creates “to choose beforehand”

D – Defining Meanings

• To purpose in heart
• To choose deliberately
• To decide beforehand
• To determine willingly

For compound words:
πρό- adds the concept of “beforehand” to αἱρέω’s meaning of “choose,” emphasizing premeditated, purposeful decision-making.

Translation Options:

1. To purpose – Best captures deliberate intention
2. To choose beforehand – Emphasizes premeditation
3. To determine willingly – Highlights voluntary aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• προτίθημι (protithēmi) [pro-TITH-ay-mee] – to set forth, more general purpose
• βούλομαι (boulomai) [BOO-lom-ai] – to will/wish, more about desire
• See G4255

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, προαιρέω shows:

• Voice: Middle (in NT usage)
• Mood: Perfect Participle
• Person: Third
• Number: Singular
• Aspect: Completed action with continuing results

Examples:

• Perfect Middle Participle: προῃρημένος (having purposed)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its connection to voluntary choice. Thayer’s notes its use in contexts of deliberate purpose. LSJ documents its classical usage in decision-making contexts. Vine’s highlights its middle voice usage indicating personal involvement. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from papyri showing voluntary commitments.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Each one must give as he has [προαιρέω] decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7

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

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

προαιρέω reveals that true Christian giving flows from deliberate heart choices. It proclaims the good news that King Jesus desires willing, joyful participation in His kingdom work. This word reminds us that God values not just our actions but the heart attitude behind them, seeking cheerful, purposeful engagement rather than reluctant compliance.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was used in ancient business contracts to indicate voluntary commitments.
2. Early church fathers used it when discussing free will in salvation.
3. It influenced philosophical discussions about moral choice and responsibility.

Strong’s G4255: A compound verb meaning “to choose beforehand” or “to purpose in one’s heart,” combining πρό (before) with αἱρέω (to take/choose). In New Testament usage, it specifically describes deliberate, purposeful choice, especially in the context of generous giving motivated by internal conviction.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: choice, purpose, giving, stewardship, voluntary action, heart attitude, generosity, Christian ethics, decision-making, free will, biblical keywords​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​