πρόφασις próphasis

Meaning

an outward showing, i.e. pretext

In the King James Version: cloke, colour, pretence, show

Derivation: from a compound of G4253 (πρό) and G5316 (φαίνω);

Where it is used

• Matthew 23:14 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.
• Mark 12:40 They defraud widows of their houses, and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive greater condemnation.”
• Luke 20:47 They defraud widows of their houses, and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will receive greater condemnation.”
• John 15:22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin.
• Acts 27:30 Meanwhile, the sailors attempted to escape from the ship. Pretending to lower anchors from the bow, they let the lifeboat down into the sea.
• Philippians 1:18 What then is the issue? Just this: that in every way, whether by false motives or true, Christ is preached. And in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,
• 1 Thessalonians 2:5 As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness!