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Most English Bibles can't carry the full weight of what's in the original Hebrew and Greek. The F.O.G. Bible Project exists to change that: three new translations built publicly (a Study Bible, a Reader's Paraphrase, and F.O.G. Family), plus a word-by-word renewal of Strong's Concordance. It is Jean Paul Joseph's lifelong work, unfolding in public — and you're invited in.

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The 6-Track plan has you read up to six chapters a day from six different sections of Scripture at the same time. It's adapted from Professor Grant Horner's method, and within eight months you'll read the whole Bible at least once, with parts like the Gospels and Psalms read more than once. It's built for deep immersion and takes about half an hour a day. You don't have to read six chapters daily, but if you choose this plan, we recommend at least three. You can also choose another plan on this website, such as the chronological option.

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G4139 (πλησίον)

Summary

Quick facts

Strong’s Number: G4139
Original Word: πλησίον
Transliteration: plēsíon
Pronunciation: play-see'-on
Part of Speech: adverb
Category: Bible Names > Nations & People Groups
Root / Etymology: neuter of a derivative of (near);
Frequency: 17×
Gematria: 448

Where it appears

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Definition

Strong 1890 (adverbially) close by; as noun, a neighbor, i.e. fellow (as man, countryman, Christian or friend)

nearneighbour

neuter of a derivative of (near);

Commentary

Contributors:

Strong's G4139: An adverb used as a substantive meaning "neighbor" or "fellow person." From πέλας (near). In ancient Greek culture, it often referred to physical proximity. In New Testament usage, Jesus and the apostles expanded its meaning to include all people as potential neighbors deserving love and care.

U- Unveiling the Word

πλησίον represents a crucial theological concept in Scripture, transforming from mere physical proximity to spiritual and ethical responsibility. Jesus radically redefines this term in the parable of the Good Samaritan, extending its meaning beyond traditional Jewish boundaries. Early church fathers emphasized this expanded understanding, seeing it as fundamental to Christian ethics. Today, it continues to challenge believers to expand their circle of responsibility and love beyond conventional social boundaries.

N - Necessary Information

Greek Word: πλησίον, plēsion, /play-SEE-on/
Detailed pronunciation: play-SEE-on (emphasis on second syllable)
Part of Speech: Adverb used substantively as a noun

Etymology:

Root: πελ- (pel-) meaning "near"
Suffix: -σιον (-sion) adverbial ending
Related to πέλας (pelas), "near"

D - Defining Meanings

Neighbor
Fellow person
One who is near

For compound words: Not a compound word, but functions adverbially or nominally

Translation Options:

Neighbor - Traditional rendering
Fellow person - More inclusive meaning
One nearby - Physical proximity aspect

E - Exploring Similar Words

γείτων (geitōn) /GAY-tone/ - neighbor, emphasizing locality
See G1069
ἀδελφός (adelphos) /a-del-FOS/ - brother, emphasizing relationship
See G80

R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology

When used as a substantive:

Functions as masculine noun
Indeclinable
Often used with article (ὁ πλησίον)
Can modify other nouns in genitive construction

When used adverbially:

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Indicates proximity or nearness
No morphological changes
Cross-references to adjective πλησίος and related terms

S - Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its ethical implications. Thayer's notes its development from proximity to relationship. LSJ documents classical usage patterns. Vine's highlights Jesus's redefinition. Strong's connects it to nearness concepts. LEH provides Septuagint usage in ethical contexts. Moulton and Milligan cite everyday usage examples.

T - Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'" Matthew 5:43

Additional References:
Matthew 19:19, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:27, Luke 10:29, Romans 13:9, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8

A - Analyzing Classical Usage

Author: Work	Text
Herodotus: Histories	"The tribes living nearby maintained peace"
Plato: Republic	"Justice involves treating one's neighbor fairly"
Xenophon: Memorabilia	"A good man helps his neighbors in need"

N - Noteworthy Summary

πλησίον embodies Jesus's radical redefinition of community and love. Through the gospel, all people become potential neighbors deserving of love and care. This word challenges us to extend Christ's love beyond comfortable boundaries, seeing every person as one whom God calls us to love as ourselves.

D - Did You Know?

The term appears in ancient property documents defining boundaries.
Early Christian communities used it to describe their social responsibilities.
It influenced development of medieval hospitality practices.

Strong's G4139: An adverb used substantively to denote "neighbor" or "fellow person." Jesus transformed its meaning from physical proximity to ethical responsibility, making it central to Christian understanding of universal love and service.

Part of speech: Adverb used substantively

Tags: neighbor, love, ethics, Good Samaritan, Jesus's teachings, community, relationships, biblical Greek, social responsibility, universal love, Christian ethics, hospitality

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