Brief Overview of πρόγονος (Strong’s G4269: progonos)

Strong’s G4269: A noun meaning “ancestors” or “progenitors,” combining πρό (before) with a derivative of γίνομαι (to become/be born). In New Testament usage, it appears in contexts emphasizing familial duty and spiritual heritage, highlighting both practical care for parents and respect for ancestral faith.

U- Unveiling the Word

πρόγονος represents ancestral relationships in both immediate and extended senses. In 1 Timothy 5:4, it emphasizes the duty to care for parents and grandparents, while in 2 Timothy 1:3, it references spiritual ancestry. Early church writers developed this concept to discuss both familial responsibilities and spiritual heritage. Today, this word continues to inform our understanding of honoring family and preserving faith traditions.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πρόγονος, progonos, PRO-go-nos
• Detailed Pronunciation: PRO (as in ‘protein’) + go (as in ‘go’) + nos (as in ‘nose’)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Prefix: πρό- (pro-) meaning “before”
• Root: -γονος (from γίνομαι) meaning “born/become”
• The combination means “those born before”

D – Defining Meanings

• Ancestors
• Parents/Grandparents
• Forebears
• Progenitors

For compound words:
πρό- adds temporal priority to -γονος’s meaning of birth/origin, creating the concept of those who came before in family lineage.

Translation Options:

1. Parents/Grandparents – Best for immediate family context
2. Ancestors – Better for extended lineage
3. Forebears – More formal option

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πατήρ (patēr) [pa-TAIR] – father, more specific
• γενεά (genea) [gen-eh-AH] – generation, broader term
• See G4269

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun:

• Case: Various forms
• Nominative: πρόγονος
• Genitive: προγόνου
• Dative: προγόνῳ
• Accusative: πρόγονον
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Second declension

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both immediate and extended family relationships. Thayer’s notes its use in filial duty contexts. LSJ documents its broad application in family relationships. Vine’s highlights its connection to family responsibility. Moulton and Milligan show its use in family legal documents.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“But if a widow has children or grandparents, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their [πρόγονος] parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God.” 1 Timothy 5:4

Additional References:
2 Timothy 1:3

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πρόγονος beautifully illustrates both family responsibility and spiritual heritage. It proclaims the good news by showing how King Jesus honors both natural family bonds and spiritual lineage. This word reminds us that faith often flows through family lines while calling us to practical expressions of godliness in family relationships.

D – Did You Know?

1. Ancient Greek wills often used this term for inheritance rights.
2. Early Christian families were known for exemplary care of their πρόγονοι.
3. The word influenced development of terms about genealogical study.

Strong’s G4269: A noun meaning “ancestors” or “progenitors,” combining πρό (before) with a derivative of γίνομαι (to become/be born). In New Testament usage, it appears in contexts emphasizing familial duty and spiritual heritage, highlighting both practical care for parents and respect for ancestral faith.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: ancestors, family, heritage, parents, grandparents, duty, honor, Timothy, family care, spiritual legacy, biblical keywords​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​