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G4314 · Greek · New Testament
πρός
pros
Preposition
to, toward, with, in the presence of

Definition

Pros (πρός) is a common Greek preposition taking three cases: with accusative (most common in NT — "toward, to, in the presence of, for the purpose of"), with genitive (rare — "from"), and with dative (rare — "at, near"). In the NT it appears about 700 times, overwhelmingly with the accusative, expressing movement or orientation toward a person or thing.

Its fundamental sense is directional: pointing toward something. But it also expresses purpose ("in order to"), relational proximity ("with," "in the presence of"), and correspondence ("fitting for").

Usage & Theological Significance

The most theologically explosive use of pros is in John 1:1-2: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with [pros] God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with [pros] God." The preposition pros here is far richer than a mere locative "beside" — it implies face-to-face relationship, an orientation-toward, a dynamic intimacy between the Son and the Father from eternity.

John's prologue uses pros to establish the eternal personhood and relational life within the Godhead before creation. This is not a static coexistence but a living, oriented, relational communion — the eternal dance of the Trinity. Pros then becomes the preposition of gospel mission: the Word who was toward God comes toward humanity (John 1:11, 14), drawing us into the same relational field from which he came.

Key Bible Verses

John 1:1-2 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with [pros] God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with [pros] God.
Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with [pros] the glory that is to be revealed to us.
2 Corinthians 4:17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison [pros].
Hebrews 4:13 And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom [pros] we must give account.
John 20:17 Jesus said to her, 'Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to [pros] the Father; but go to [pros] my brothers.'

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