προαιρέω (proaireō)
proaireō
to predetermine
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb proaireō signifies making a deliberate choice or forming a firm intention before acting. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 2 Corinthians 9:7, where Paul describes giving cheerfully as a personal decision rather than a forced obligation. The word emphasizes the internal resolve that precedes external action.
Its structure combines "before" with "to take or choose," suggesting a preference established in advance. While some sources link it to bringing forth from one’s stores, the primary sense is one of voluntary selection. It distinguishes itself by highlighting the conscious will behind an act, as seen when believers are urged to give not reluctantly but from their own determined purpose.
Translators typically render this term as "purpose" or "choose," capturing the idea of a settled mind. The context in 2 Corinthians underscores that true generosity stems from a heart that has freely decided, rather than one acting under pressure. This single usage reinforces the biblical theme that God values the attitude of the giver alongside the gift itself.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we face decisions about how to live out our faith, it is easy to feel pulled by external pressures or guilt. The word proaireō reminds us that God looks at the heart's intention before He sees the action. It describes a deliberate choice made in advance, a firm resolve that guides what we do next.
In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul encourages believers to give as they have previously decided in their hearts. This is not about sudden impulses or forced obligations. Instead, it points to a settled mind where generosity flows from a willing spirit. God values this cheerful attitude because it reflects trust and freedom.
May you find peace in making choices that align with your deepest convictions. Let your actions be rooted in a heart that has freely chosen to follow Christ's example of love and grace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- he himself has purposed1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- προῄρηται1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 9:7
Let each man give according as he has determined in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
This verse uses proaireō to contrast cheerful, voluntary giving with reluctant compliance, showing that God values the internal resolve behind the act.