Brief Overview of προστάσσω (Strong’s G4367: prostassō)

Strong’s G4367: A compound verb combining πρός (toward) with τάσσω (to arrange, order), meaning to command, direct, or prescribe with authority. Used in contexts of divine commands and authoritative instructions, emphasizing both the source and binding nature of the directive.

U- Unveiling the Word

Προστάσσω embodies the concept of authoritative command or direction. As a compound word, it joins πρός (toward) with τάσσω (to arrange/order), creating a term that emphasizes both the authority behind the command and its directed nature. In its New Testament usage, particularly regarding divine commands through angels or prophets, it carries the weight of divine authority. The early church understood this term as reflecting God’s direct involvement in human affairs through clear, authoritative directives. Today, it reminds us that God’s commands come with both authority and purpose.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: προστάσσω, prostassō, /pro-TAS-sō/
• Detailed pronunciation: pro (as in ‘pro’) + tas (as in ‘task’) + sō (as in ‘so’)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• πρός (pros-) – prefix meaning “toward, to”
• τάσσω (tassō) – root verb meaning “to arrange, order”
  The combination emphasizes directed, authoritative ordering.

D – Defining Meanings

• To command with authority
• To prescribe
• To direct specifically

For compound words:
The prefix πρός adds directional force to the base verb τάσσω, emphasizing that the command or arrangement is purposefully directed toward its recipient.

Translation Options:

1. “To command” – Best captures the authoritative nature
2. “To prescribe” – Emphasizes the specific nature of the directive
3. “To enjoin” – Highlights both authority and obligation

E – Exploring Similar Words

• διατάσσω (diatassō, /di-a-TAS-sō/) – To arrange thoroughly
  See G1299
• ἐπιτάσσω (epitassō, /e-pi-TAS-sō/) – To command, order upon
  See G2004
• συντάσσω (syntassō, /syn-TAS-sō/) – To arrange together
  See G4929

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, προστάσσω exhibits these morphological features:

• Tense: Present, Aorist, Perfect
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Participle, Infinitive
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Imperfective (Present), Perfective (Aorist)

Example morphological variations:

• Present: προστάσσω (I command)
• Aorist: προσέταξα (I commanded)
• Perfect Passive: προστέταγμαι (I have been commanded)

Related words in other parts of speech:

• πρόσταγμα (prostagma) – noun form meaning “command, ordinance”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in contexts of divine commands. Thayer’s notes its implications of authority and specificity. LSJ provides examples from legal and administrative contexts. Vine’s highlights its use in conveying divine directives. Strong’s emphasizes the compound nature and authoritative meaning. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from official documents and decrees.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
“When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord [προστάσσω] commanded him: he took his wife,” Matthew 1:24

Additional References:
Matthew 8:4
Mark 1:44
Luke 5:14
Acts 10:33
Acts 10:48

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Προστάσσω powerfully illustrates how God communicates His will with authority and purpose. From Joseph’s obedience to angelic commands to the prescribed rituals of purification, this word reminds us that God’s directives are both authoritative and purposeful. The good news of King Jesus includes His loving authority over our lives, guiding us with clear commands for our good and His glory.

D – Did You Know?

1. This word was commonly used in ancient military contexts for battlefield commands.
2. It appears in legal documents describing official governmental directives.
3. Early Christian writers used it to emphasize the binding nature of Christ’s teachings.

Strong’s G4367: A compound verb combining πρός (toward) with τάσσω (to arrange, order), meaning to command, direct, or prescribe with authority. Used in contexts of divine commands and authoritative instructions, emphasizing both the source and binding nature of the directive.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: command, authority, directive, divine instruction, obedience, order, prescription, leadership, guidance, divine will​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​