The meaning of “προφήτης”
Understanding prophḗtēs reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
prophet. - a foreteller ("prophet") - by analogy, an inspired speaker - by extension, a poet
προφήτης
prophet. - a foreteller ("prophet") - by analogy, an inspired speaker - by extension, a poet
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 13:57 | “And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house.” Word: προφήτης (prophḗtēs) | |
| John 6:45 | “It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.” Word: προφήτης (prophḗtēs) | |
| 1 Corinthians 14:29 | “Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.” Word: προφήτης (prophḗtēs) | |
| Titus 1:12 | “One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.” Word: προφήτης (prophḗtēs) | |
| 1 Peter 1:10 | “Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:” Word: προφήτης (prophḗtēs) |
Theological Word Study: Prophet
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Prophet, spokesman
The Hebrew navi (נָבִיא) means prophet—one who speaks God's word to the people. Prophets received divine revelation and declared God's message, often calling Israel to repentance and foretelling future events.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Prophet
The Greek prophētēs (προφήτης) denotes a prophet—one who speaks forth God's message. Jesus was recognized as 'a prophet mighty in deed and word' (Luke 24:19), fulfilling and surpassing the prophetic office.