προσφωνέω (prosphōneō)
prosphōneō
to call to/summon
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb prosphōneō describes the act of calling out to someone or summoning them, often implying a direct address. In the New Testament, it appears seven times, primarily in Luke and Acts, with a single occurrence in Matthew. The word combines a prefix meaning "to" or "toward" with a root for "voice," capturing the image of speaking directly to a person to gain their attention.
Its usage varies slightly depending on the grammatical construction. In classical Greek, it often takes two accusatives, but in the New Testament, it frequently appears with a dative case to indicate the person being addressed. For instance, Jesus uses it when describing how people call out to one another in the marketplace (Luke 7:32), and Paul employs it to describe addressing the crowd in Jerusalem (Acts 21:40). In Luke 6:13, it takes on a more authoritative tone as Jesus calls his disciples to himself by name.
This term highlights personal engagement rather than general proclamation. It is not merely speaking into the air but directing words toward specific individuals. Whether used in casual conversation or formal summons, prosphōneō underscores the relational aspect of communication in Scripture, showing how voices are directed toward others to initiate interaction or command attention.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
This word captures the intimacy of a direct summons. It is not a distant shout into the void, but a personal call directed at someone specific. When Jesus used it in Luke 6:13 to call His disciples, He was initiating a relationship that would change their lives forever. The act implies that the caller knows exactly who they are addressing and expects a response.
In our own faith journey, this reminds us that God does not speak in generalities when He wants our attention. He calls us by name. Just as Paul addressed the crowd in Acts 21:40 to share a specific message, we can trust that when God speaks to our hearts, it is tailored for our situation. We are never ignored or overlooked.
There is comfort in knowing that the Creator of the universe invites us into direct conversation. Whether we are facing a difficult decision or simply seeking peace, we can approach Him with confidence. He has already called us to Himself, and His voice remains clear and inviting for those who listen.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- he was addressing1×
- he addressed [them]1×
- calling out1×
- calling1×
- called [her] near1×
- called1×
- He called to [Him]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- προσεφώνησεν4×
- προσφωνοῦσιν1×
- προσφωνοῦντα1×
- προσεφώνει1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 6:13
When it was day, he called his disciples, and from them he chose twelve, whom he also named apostles:
This verse highlights Jesus' personal authority as He individually summons His chosen followers before appointing them apostles.
-
Acts 21:40
When he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, beckoned with his hand to the people. When there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying,
Paul uses this action to gain the attention of a restless crowd, demonstrating how direct address can command silence and focus.
-
Luke 7:32
They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another, saying, ‘We piped to you, and you didn’t dance. We mourned, and you didn’t weep.’
Jesus describes children calling to each other in the marketplace, illustrating a casual but persistent attempt to engage companions in play or mourning.