Original Word: πρεσβεία
Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine
Transliteration: presbeia
Pronunciation: pres-BAY-ah
Phonetic Spelling: (pres-bi'-ah)
Definition: Embassy, Ambassadorship, Message, Entreaty
Meaning: an embassy, delegation, eldership.

an ambassador

From presbeuo; seniority (eldership), i.e. (by implication) an embassy (concretely, ambassadors) -- ambassage, message.

see GREEK presbeuo

Word Origin
from presbeuó
Definition
age, seniority
NASB Translation
delegation (2).

STRONGS NT 4242: πρεσβεία

πρεσβεία, πρεσβειας, ἡ (πρεσβεύω);

1. age, dignity, right of the first born: Aeschylus Pers. 4; Plato, de rep. 6, p. 509 b.; Pausanias, 3, 1, 4; 3, 3, 8.

2. the business usually to be entrusted to elders, specifically, the office of an ambassador, an embassy (Aristophanes, Xenophon, Plato); abstract for the concrete, an ambassage, i. e. ambassadors, Luke 14:32; Luke 19:14.

Word Origin: Derived from πρέσβυς (presbus), meaning "elder" or "ambassador."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The concept of "πρεσβεία" can be related to several Hebrew terms that convey similar ideas of representation and mediation, such as:
• שָׁלִיחַ (shalach) • often translated as "messenger" or "sent one."
• מַלְאָךְ (malak) • meaning "angel" or "messenger," used to describe both human and divine messengers.
• פָּרַשׁ (parash) • meaning "to explain" or "to make clear," often used in the context of interpreting or mediating messages.

These Hebrew terms, while not direct equivalents, share thematic connections with the Greek concept of "πρεσβεία," emphasizing the role of individuals who are sent to convey messages, negotiate, and intercede on behalf of others.

Usage: The word "πρεσβεία" is used in the New Testament to describe the act of intercession or representation, often in a diplomatic or mediatory context.

Context: The Greek term "πρεσβεία" appears in the New Testament in contexts that emphasize the role of mediation and representation. In Luke 14:32, it is used in a parable where a king sends a delegation to negotiate terms of peace, illustrating the importance of wise and timely intercession. The concept of "πρεσβεία" underscores the responsibility and authority vested in those who act as intermediaries, whether in earthly or spiritual matters.

In the broader biblical narrative, the role of an ambassador or representative is significant. Ambassadors are entrusted with the message and authority of the one who sends them, reflecting the relationship between God and His messengers. This concept is mirrored in the spiritual realm, where believers are called to be ambassadors for Christ, representing His kingdom and message to the world.

The use of "πρεσβεία" in the New Testament highlights the importance of intercession, both in prayer and in action, as believers are called to stand in the gap for others, advocating for peace and reconciliation. This aligns with the biblical theme of mediation, where Christ Himself is the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.

πρέσβεια πρεσβειαν πρεσβείαν πρεσβείου presbeian presbeíanInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts