πρόκειμαι

I am set before

Definition

The verb πρόκειμαι (prokeimai) means 'to be set before' or 'to lie before' someone, often conveying the idea of something being presented, available, or established as a goal or reality. In its literal sense, it can describe something physically placed in front of a person, as in the example of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah serving as a warning 'set before' us (Jude 1:7). More commonly, it is used figuratively. In 2 Corinthians 8:12, it refers to a willing attitude being 'present' or 'set before' God as acceptable. Its most theologically significant usage is in Hebrews, where it describes the hope 'set before' us as an anchor (Hebrews 6:18), the race 'set before' us to run (Hebrews 12:1), and the joy 'set before' Jesus, which motivated his endurance of the cross (Hebrews 12:2).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used five times in the New Testament, exclusively in the epistles (2 Corinthians, Hebrews, Jude). Its usage is consistently figurative, describing abstract realities presented to believers. In 2 Corinthians 8:12, it concerns a spiritual readiness. In Hebrews, it frames the Christian life as a journey with a defined objective: a secure hope (6:18), a prescribed race (12:1), and the motivating joy of Christ (12:2). Jude 1:7 uses it to present a historical example as a perpetual warning. The word often appears in contexts of exhortation and encouragement.

Etymology

Πρόκειμαι is a compound verb formed from πρό (pro), meaning 'before' or 'in front of,' and κεῖμαι (keimai), a common verb meaning 'to lie,' 'to be set,' or 'to be established.' Literally, it means 'to lie before.' It is in the middle/passive voice, indicating the subject is in a state of being positioned or presented. Cognates include the simpler verb κεῖμαι and related words like ἀνάκειμαι (anakeimai, 'to recline at table'). The compound emphasizes something being openly displayed or available ahead of time.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the forward-looking, goal-oriented nature of the Christian faith. It presents core elements of salvation—hope, our calling, and Christ's reward—not as hidden secrets but as openly established realities believers are to fix their eyes upon. Understanding πρόκειμαι enriches reading by highlighting how biblical encouragement often points to what is 'set before' us, transforming endurance from mere grit into focused pursuit. The use in Hebrews 12:2 is particularly profound, revealing the psychological and spiritual motivation behind Christ's atoning work.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, the imagery of something 'set before' someone was common in athletic and military contexts. A racecourse was 'set before' competitors, and a strategic objective was 'set before' an army. The author of Hebrews directly employs this well-understood cultural concept in Hebrews 12:1-2, comparing the Christian life to a public athletic contest with a clear finish line. This made the metaphor immediately accessible to the original audience, framing discipleship as a disciplined, purposeful endeavor with a public reward.

τίθημι (tithēmi, G5087) — A more general verb meaning 'to put' or 'to place'; πρόκειμαι implies something is already in position before someone. παρίστημι (paristēmi, G3936) — Means 'to present' or 'to stand beside'; while similar, it often involves a more active act of presenting rather than a state of being set forth. κεῖμαι (keimai, G2749) — The root verb meaning 'to lie'; πρόκειμαι adds the directional prefix 'before.'

Word Details

Scripture References