προχειρίζω (procheirizō)
procheirizō
to appoint
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb procheirizō carries the concrete image of taking something into one’s hands to use it, which in Scripture translates to appointing or choosing someone for a specific purpose. It appears only three times in the New Testament, all within the book of Acts, describing divine selection rather than human preference.
In Acts 3:20, the form suggests God sending forth Christ as one who is already prepared and at hand for His mission. Later, Paul recounts how Ananias was told he had been chosen to restore sight (Acts 22:14), and Jesus declares that He has appointed Paul to proclaim His name before Gentiles (Acts 26:16). In these instances, the word emphasizes being set apart or designated for a task.
The root combines "before" with "hand," implying something ready to be grasped. This distinguishes it from general words for choosing; procheirizō highlights readiness and specific assignment. Translators often render it as "appointed" or "chosen," capturing the sense of being selected for a defined role in God’s plan.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word procheirizō paints a simple but powerful picture: taking something into your hands because it is ready for use. In Scripture, this describes God’s action of appointing people for specific tasks. It is not about random selection or human preference. Instead, it highlights divine preparation and clear assignment.
When you read Acts 26:16, Jesus tells Paul he was appointed to be a witness. This shows that your role in God’s plan is intentional. You are not an afterthought. God sees your readiness and calls you into service with purpose. This assurance can bring peace when you feel uncertain about your path.
Even in Acts 22:14, Ananias is told he was appointed to know God’s will. This reminds us that God prepares us for what He asks of us. You do not need to manufacture your own readiness. Trust that the One who appoints also equips. His purpose for you is steady and sure.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to appoint1×
- has appointed1×
- appointed1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- προχειρίσασθαί1×
- προκεχειρισμένον1×
- προεχειρίσατό1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 26:16
But arise, and stand on your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose: to appoint you a servant and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will reveal to you;
This verse explicitly links the appointment to a dual role as servant and witness, showing that divine selection includes both identity and mission.
-
Acts 22:14
He said, ‘The God of our fathers has appointed you to know his will, and to see the Righteous One, and to hear a voice from his mouth.
Here the term emphasizes that knowing God’s will is itself a gift of appointment, not merely human effort or intellectual achievement.
-
Acts 3:20
and that he may send Christ Jesus, who was ordained for you before,
The usage here suggests Christ was already prepared and set aside by the Father before His public ministry began, highlighting eternal readiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does procheirizō mean in the New Testament?
How is procheirizō different from other words for choosing?
Where does this word appear in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Acts 3 verses
and that he may send Christ Jesus, who was ordained for you before,
Acts 22:14He said, ‘The God of our fathers has appointed you to know his will, and to see the Righteous One, and to hear a voice…
Acts 26:16But arise, and stand on your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose: to appoint you a servant and a witness…