Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Proseucha" (προσευχή) is a Greek word that translates to "prayer" or "place of prayer." It is derived from the verb "proseuchomai," meaning "to pray." In the context of the New Testament, "proseucha" can refer both to the act of praying and to a physical location designated for prayer, often used by Jewish communities in the Diaspora. Biblical References: The concept of proseucha as a place of prayer is notably mentioned in the Book of Acts. In Acts 16:13, the Apostle Paul, during his second missionary journey, visits Philippi, a Roman colony. The passage states: "On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there" (Acts 16:13). This indicates that proseucha was a recognized location for communal prayer, especially in areas where a synagogue might not have been established. Historical and Cultural Context: In the first-century Greco-Roman world, Jewish communities often established proseuchai (plural of proseucha) in places where a formal synagogue was not present. These were typically simple structures or open-air sites, often located near bodies of water, which facilitated ritual purification practices. The proseucha served as a gathering place for prayer, reading of the Scriptures, and community fellowship. Theological Significance: The use of proseucha highlights the importance of communal prayer and worship in the early Christian and Jewish traditions. It underscores the continuity of Jewish practices within the early Christian movement, as the apostles and early believers often engaged with Jewish customs and places of worship. The proseucha also reflects the adaptability of Jewish worship practices in the Diaspora, maintaining religious identity and community cohesion in diverse cultural settings. New Testament Context: The mention of proseucha in Acts 16:13 is significant for several reasons. It demonstrates the Apostle Paul's strategy of engaging with local Jewish communities as a starting point for his missionary work. The encounter at the proseucha in Philippi leads to the conversion of Lydia, a prominent woman in the city, and the establishment of the first Christian community in Europe. This event marks a pivotal moment in the spread of the Gospel beyond the Jewish world into the Gentile regions. Practical Application: For contemporary believers, the concept of proseucha serves as a reminder of the importance of setting aside dedicated times and places for prayer and worship. It encourages the establishment of communal spaces where believers can gather to seek God, study His Word, and support one another in faith. The proseucha exemplifies the value of prayer as a foundational practice in the life of the church and individual believers. Conclusion: While the term "proseucha" may not be frequently mentioned in the New Testament, its implications for prayer, community, and mission are profound. It serves as a testament to the enduring significance of prayer in the life of God's people, both in ancient times and today. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia PROSEUCHE; PROSEUCHApro-su'-ke, prosu'-ka (proseuche): "A place in the open air where the Jews were wont to pray, outside of those cities where they had no synagogue," Acts 16:13, 16 (Thayer, Lexicon of the New Testament). Library So I Suspected Nothing, and Went Away to Tarichese... Footnotes Now There was one Whose Name was Ananias a Wicked Man He Was... That Upon the Conquest and Slaughter of vitellius Vespasian ... Political and Religious Life of the Jewish Dispersion in the West ... Thesaurus Proseucha... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia PROSEUCHE; PROSEUCHA. pro-su'-ke, prosu'-ka (proseuche): "A place in the open air where the Jews ... /p/proseucha.htm - 6k Proseuche Proselytes (2 Occurrences) Philippians (2 Occurrences) Discomfiture (6 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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