Brief Overview of πρόσωπον (Strong’s G4383: prosōpon)

Strong’s G4383: A compound noun combining πρός (toward) with ὤψ (eye/face), literally meaning “that which is toward the eyes,” referring to face, countenance, or presence. Used extensively in both literal and metaphorical contexts to describe physical appearance, personal presence, and divine manifestation.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πρόσωπον represents both the physical face and the deeper concept of presence or person. As a compound word, it joins πρός (toward) with ὤψ (eye/face), creating a rich term that encompasses both external appearance and personal presence. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts ranging from literal facial descriptions to profound theological statements about seeing God’s face. The early church understood this term as particularly significant in discussions of divine-human encounter and Christ’s incarnation. Today, it continues to inform our understanding of personal presence, divine revelation, and authentic relationship.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πρόσωπον, prosōpon, /PRO-sō-pon/
• Detailed pronunciation: pro (as in ‘pro’) + sō (as in ‘so’) + pon (as in ‘pawn’)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• πρός (pros-) – prefix meaning “toward”
• ὤψ (ōps) – root noun meaning “eye, face”
• -ον (-on) – neuter noun ending
  The combination describes that which is before or toward the eyes.

D – Defining Meanings

• Face
• Countenance
• Presence
• Person
• External appearance

For compound words:
The prefix πρός adds the notion of direction or orientation, while ὤψ contributes the basic meaning of visual appearance or face.

Translation Options:

1. “Face” – Best captures physical aspect
2. “Presence” – Emphasizes personal manifestation
3. “Person” – Highlights individual identity

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὄψις (opsis, /OP-sis/) – Appearance, sight
  See G3799
• μορφή (morphē, /mor-FE/) – Form, appearance
  See G3444
• παρουσία (parousia, /pa-rou-SI-a/) – Presence, coming
  See G3952

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a neuter noun, πρόσωπον exhibits these morphological features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Second

Example forms:

• Nominative/Accusative singular: πρόσωπον
• Genitive singular: προσώπου
• Dative singular: προσώπῳ
• Nominative/Accusative plural: πρόσωπα

Related words in other parts of speech:

• προσωπικός (prosōpikos) – adjective meaning “personal”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its range from literal to metaphorical uses. Thayer’s notes its development in biblical usage. LSJ provides extensive examples from classical literature. Vine’s highlights its theological significance. Strong’s emphasizes the compound nature. Moulton and Milligan cite examples showing social and legal usage.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their [πρόσωπον] faces that their fasting may be seen by others.” Matthew 6:16

Additional References:
Mark 1:2
Luke 9:51
Acts 3:19
2 Corinthians 4:6
Revelation 22:4

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πρόσωπον beautifully captures both human and divine presence. From describing Christ’s physical face to promising the beatific vision of God’s presence, this word reminds us that the good news of King Jesus centers on restored face-to-face relationship with God, culminating in seeing Him as He is.

D – Did You Know?

1. This word influenced early Christian discussions of the Trinity.
2. It developed into the theatrical term “persona” through Latin.
3. Early Christian art used it in discussions of icon theology.

Strong’s G4383: A compound noun combining πρός (toward) with ὤψ (eye/face), literally meaning “that which is toward the eyes,” referring to face, countenance, or presence. Used extensively in both literal and metaphorical contexts to describe physical appearance, personal presence, and divine manifestation.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: face, presence, appearance, person, countenance, divine presence, manifestation, identity, encounter, revelation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​