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πρόσληψις (proslēpsis)

proslēpsis

acceptance

G4356 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun proslēpsis refers to the act of receiving or accepting someone into a group or relationship. Its root combines a prefix meaning "to" with a verb for "taking hold," suggesting an active welcoming rather than passive observation. In Scripture, this word appears only once, in Romans 11:15.

Paul uses it to describe the spiritual significance of Israel’s rejection and subsequent restoration. He argues that if their casting away resulted in reconciliation for the world, their future acceptance will bring even greater life. The term emphasizes God’s decisive action in gathering people into His kingdom, highlighting the relational weight of divine hospitality.

Translators typically render this word as "acceptance" to capture its sense of being welcomed or received. This usage underscores the theological concept that salvation involves being taken in by God, a central theme in Pauline theology regarding the inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word proslēpsis carries a sense of active welcoming, like being taken hold of and received into a relationship. In Romans 11:15, Paul uses this term to describe Israel’s future acceptance by God. He contrasts their past rejection with a coming restoration that brings spiritual life to the world.

This offers deep comfort to anyone who feels distant from God or unsure of their place in His family. It reminds us that acceptance is not based on our performance but on God’s decisive action to welcome us back. When we feel cast aside, this promise assures us that God’s heart is to restore and include.

Knowing you are actively sought and received by the Creator changes how you face uncertainty. You do not need to strive for a place at the table; He has already prepared it. This hope anchors your soul in His faithful love, offering peace that endures through every season of life.

How it's translated

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

  • acceptance1×

Forms in the text

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

  • πρόσλημψις1×

Key Verses

  • Romans 11:15
    For if the rejection of them is the reconciling of the world, what would their acceptance be, but life from the dead?

    Paul uses this unique term to contrast Israel’s past rejection with a future restoration that brings spiritual life to the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Greek word proslēpsis mean?

It means acceptance or being welcomed into a group. The root suggests an active taking hold, emphasizing that God initiates the relationship rather than waiting for us to earn it.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

It appears only once, in Romans 11:15. Paul uses it to describe the future acceptance of Israel and its impact on the world.

How is proslēpsis different from general reception?

While general reception can be passive, proslēpsis implies a deliberate act of taking someone in. It highlights the relational weight of being fully included by God.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)