
Tools and resources you need to do a word study on the Greek word for gentle, meek: praus.
praus, gentle
Strong’s number: G4239
Greek Lexical Dictionary: Strong’s #4239 – πραΰς
Greek Word: πραΰς, πραεῖα, πραΰ
Part of speech: adjective
Transliteration: praus
Phonetic Spelling: prah-ooce’
Quick Definition: meekness
Usage: mild, gentle
Etymology: a form of 4235
NASB Translation: gentle
New Testament Usage
praus 4X in the New Testament: Mat 5:5; Mat 11:29: Mat 21:5; 1Pet 3:4
14x in 13 verses the Septuagint (LXX)
Num 12:3; Job 24:4; Job 36:15; Psa 25:9; Psa 34:2; Psa 37:11; Psa 76:9; Psa 147:6; Psa 149:4; Isa 26:6; Dan 4:19; Joel 3:11; Zep 3:12; Zec 9:9.
In Classical Greek praus was used to describe tame or gentle animals (an unbroken colt is useless), a soothing medicine (medicine that was too strong harms rather than heals), a mild or soft word, a gentle voice (emotion out of control destroys and tears down) or a gentle breeze (wind out of control brings destruction).
Meekness/gentleness implies self-control. Aristotle explained that it is the mean between excessive anger and excessive angerlessness. The man who is meek is able to balance his anger. It is strength under control.
Englishman’s Concordance: praus
Lexicons
Thayers 4239: mildness of disposition, gentleness of spirit, meekness; also 4235
Strongs 4239: mild, that is, (by implication) humble: – meek. See also G4235.
Mounce 4239: gentle, meek, the positive moral quality of dealing with people in a kind manner, with humility and consideration
Related Words: prautes G4240 gentleness;
Hebrew Equivalent Words: Strong #: 6035 (עָנָיו aw‑nawv’; poor, humble); 6041 (עָנִי (aw‑nee; poor afflicted)
PreceptsAustin: praus 4239; prautes 4240
Reference Works
06 1 Peter 3:1-7 When you’re treated unfairly
09 James 3:13-4:6 The Cause of Strife
I’m Confused, You’re Annoying, and He’s Pig-Headed. To God be the Glory!
RC Sproul: Meekness and self-control
RC Sproul: Blessed are the meek
RC Sproul: Gentleness
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