πρό (pro)
pro
before
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 47 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The preposition pro places something in front of another, whether in physical space or prior in time. It appears frequently in the Gospels and Acts to mark location, such as when John the Baptist is described as preparing the way before Jesus (Luke 1:76). The sources note its use for spatial positioning, like standing before a gate (Acts 12:6), establishing a clear sense of proximity or precedence.
A significant feature of this word is its temporal application. It marks events that occurred earlier than a reference point, as seen when John recalls his own ministry taking place before Jesus’ public appearance (John 1:31). The sources also highlight its use for preference, where it indicates priority over other things, such as love being placed above all else in James 5:12. This usage extends into compound words that convey ideas of anticipation or prior knowledge.
The term carries theological weight by framing God’s actions within a historical sequence. For instance, Paul uses it to describe believers chosen before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4). This temporal sense is not merely chronological but implies a divine order, where certain realities or persons hold precedence in God’s plan. The word thus connects physical location with spiritual priority.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word pro anchors us in two dimensions: time and presence. It tells us that God’s knowledge precedes our needs, as seen when Jesus notes He knows what we require before we even ask (Matthew 6:8). This is not distant observation but intimate care. It also marks physical proximity, such as Peter standing at the prison gate, waiting for deliverance (Acts 12:14). In both cases, pro signifies that nothing is hidden or out of reach.
Theologically, this preposition carries weight in John’s Gospel. Jesus speaks of a glory shared with the Father before the world existed (John 17:5). This reminds us that our place in Christ is rooted in an eternal love, not merely a temporary circumstance. When we feel unseen or forgotten, pro assures us that we are known and held within God’s prior purpose.
We can rest in this sequence. Our struggles do not catch God by surprise. His actions are ordered with wisdom and love, placing us securely in His plan before time itself began. This gives us confidence to face the future, knowing we are never alone in it.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 47 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- before33×
- Before8×
- before [the]3×
- just outside1×
- ago1×
- above1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πρὸ43×
- Πρὸ4×
Key Verses
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Matthew 6:8
Therefore don’t be like them, for your Father knows what things you need before you ask him.
This verse highlights the temporal aspect of pro, showing that God’s knowledge of our needs precedes our request, emphasizing His proactive care.
-
John 17:5
Now, Father, glorify me with your own self with the glory which I had with you before the world existed.
Here pro establishes a pre-temporal relationship between the Father and Son, grounding Jesus’ glory in eternity past rather than just historical events.
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Acts 12:14
When she recognized Peter’s voice, she didn’t open the gate for joy, but ran in and reported that Peter was standing in front of the gate.
The spatial use of pro here places Peter physically at the gate, illustrating immediate proximity and the tangible reality of divine intervention.
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John 13:1
Now before the feast of the Passover, Jesus, knowing that his time had come that he would depart from this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.
This occurrence sets the narrative stage by placing Jesus’ actions in the context of the approaching Passover, linking His love to the timing of His departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word pro mean?
How is pro different from other words for 'before'?
Where does pro appear most significantly?
Every Occurrence (47 verses across 17 books)
Matthew 5 verses
Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who…
Matthew 6:8Therefore don’t be like them, for your Father knows what things you need before you ask him.
Matthew 8:29Behold, they cried out, saying, “What do we have to do with you, Jesus, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us…
Matthew 11:10For this is he, of whom it is written, ‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before…
Matthew 24:38For as in those days which were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until…