προσλαλέω (proslaleō)
proslaleō
to talk to/with
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb proslaleō means to speak to or converse with someone. It appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in the book of Acts (Acts 13:43; 28:20). The word combines the prefix pros-, indicating direction toward, with laleō, meaning to talk. This construction emphasizes a direct, face-to-face interaction rather than a general address.
In its first occurrence, Paul and Barnabas speak to the synagogue in Antioch (Acts 13:43), where the context suggests a persuasive or explanatory conversation following a sermon. In the second instance, Paul speaks to the Roman officials in Malta (Acts 28:20), explaining his situation as a prisoner. The dative case typically marks the person being addressed, highlighting the personal nature of the exchange.
While similar to other Greek words for speaking, proslaleō carries a specific nuance of engaging directly with an individual or group. Its rare usage in Acts underscores moments of personal explanation or defense. Translators usually render it as "spoke to" or "conversed with," capturing the straightforward, interpersonal communication intended by the original text.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word προσλαλέω (proslaleō) describes a direct, face-to-face conversation. It is not a casual remark or a distant speech, but an intentional engagement with another person. In the New Testament, this term appears only twice, both in the book of Acts, highlighting moments where the gospel message was shared personally and clearly.
When Paul used this word in Antioch, he urged believers to remain faithful after a public sermon. Later, speaking from chains in Rome, he explained his situation to Roman officials with the same directness. This shows that Christian communication is meant to be personal, clear, and purposeful. It invites us to see our conversations as opportunities for connection and truth-sharing.
Whether you are explaining your faith to a friend or simply listening to someone in need, this word reminds us that God values genuine interaction. We do not just speak at people; we speak with them, building bridges of understanding and grace in our daily lives.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to speak to [you];1×
- speaking1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- προσλαλῆσαι·1×
- προσλαλοῦντες1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 13:43
Now when the synagogue broke up, many of the Jews and of the devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas; who, speaking to them, urged them to continue in the grace of God.
This verse shows the word used for personal encouragement after a public sermon, emphasizing follow-up care.
-
Acts 28:20
For this cause therefore I asked to see you and to speak with you. For because of the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.”
Here Paul uses the term to explain his imprisonment directly to Roman leaders, framing it around shared hope.