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προαιτιάομαι (proaitiaomai)

proaitiaomai

to accuse

G4256 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The verb proaitiaomai means to bring an accusation in advance, or to charge someone based on what has already been established. It is a rare word, appearing only once in the New Testament, in Romans 3:9.

Its structure combines a prefix meaning "before" with a root related to blame or guilt. This suggests that Paul is not introducing a new charge, but rather summarizing a conclusion reached through his previous arguments. He uses it to state that both Jews and Greeks are all under sin, having already laid the groundwork for this verdict in the preceding verses.

Because of its scarcity, the word’s force lies in its context rather than unique definition. It serves as a rhetorical seal on Paul’s case against universal human guilt, confirming that the accusation stands firmly before any further discussion of grace begins.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word proaitiaomai appears only once in the New Testament, in Romans 3:9. Paul uses it to summarize a conclusion he has already reached: both Jews and Greeks are under sin. This is not a new accusation but a confirmation of what was previously established. It highlights that everyone stands on equal ground before God.

This shared condition is the starting point for understanding grace. When we recognize that no one is exempt from this verdict, we stop comparing ourselves to others. Instead, we look to Christ, who offers forgiveness to all who believe. This truth invites humility and hope, reminding us that salvation is a gift available to everyone.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • We have already charged1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • προῃτιασάμεθα1×

Key Verses

  • Romans 3:9
    What then? Are we better than they? No, in no way. For we previously warned both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin.

    Paul uses this rare verb to seal his argument that both Jews and Greeks are under sin, confirming the universal need for grace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does proaitiaomai mean?

It means to accuse or charge someone, specifically in a way that summarizes a previously established conclusion. In Romans 3:9, Paul uses it to confirm that all people are under sin.

Why is this word significant in Romans 3:9?

It serves as a rhetorical seal on Paul’s argument. By using this term, he emphasizes that the verdict of universal guilt is already settled before he introduces the solution of grace.

How is proaitiaomai different from other words for accuse?

While other Greek words simply mean to charge or blame, proaitiaomai implies a prior warning or established basis. It suggests the accusation is not new but a confirmation of what was already known.

Where else does this word appear in the Bible?

It appears only once in the New Testament, in Romans 3:9. Its rarity highlights its specific function in Paul’s argument about universal sinfulness.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Romans 1 verse
Romans 3:9

What then? Are we better than they? No, in no way. For we previously warned both Jews and Greeks that they are all…