G3808

Unveiling the Word

The Greek term παιδάριον (paidárion) translates to “little child” or “young child.” It signifies a diminutive form of παις (pais), which means “child” or “boy.” This term is used to express affection or to indicate a child’s youth, emphasizing innocence and vulnerability. In biblical contexts, παιδάριον appears notably in Matthew 11:16, where it reflects a youthful, naive perspective in comparison to adults. The significance of this term goes beyond its literal meaning; it encapsulates cultural attitudes towards children in ancient Greece, where they were seen as both innocent and impressionable.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: παιδάριον, pronounced [pai-DAR-ee-on].

Etymology: The word is derived from παις (pais), meaning “child,” with the diminutive suffix -άριον (-árion), suggesting something small or lesser in stature.

Part of Speech: παιδάριον is a noun and specifically a neuter noun in the singular form. It can also take plural forms, such as παιδάρια (paidária).

Defining Meanings

Young Child: The primary meaning of παιδάριον refers to a young child, particularly one who is still dependent on adults for care and guidance.

Diminutive Form: It serves as a diminutive term for παις, highlighting not only the child’s youth but also the tenderness or affection associated with their innocence.

Symbol of Innocence: In various contexts, παιδάριον symbolizes purity and innocence, contrasting the complexities and moral ambiguities of adult behavior.

Exploring Similar Words

παῖς (pais) [pais]: This term means “child” and can refer to a young boy or girl without the diminutive implication of παιδάριον, which specifically emphasizes youthfulness.

νέος (neōs) [nay-OSS]: Meaning “young” or “youthful,” νέος is broader than παιδάριον, which refers specifically to very young children.

κόρη (korē) [KOR-ay]: Meaning “girl” or “maiden,” this word specifies gender and is not a diminutive but can indicate youthfulness in a female context.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns/Adjectives:

• Case, Number, Gender: παιδάριον is a neuter noun. It can appear in various cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative), both singular and plural.

• Declension: It follows the second declension pattern in Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Insights from Greek lexicons reveal that παιδάριον reflects cultural attitudes toward children in the Greco-Roman world, where children were often viewed as symbols of innocence and potential. In biblical literature, its usage underscores themes of humility and the inherent value of childlike faith. The term emphasizes the contrast between the simplicity of a child’s perspective and the complexities of adult concerns, making it particularly resonant in passages discussing faith and the kingdom of God.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 11:16: “But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children [παιδάριοι] sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows.”

Luke 7:32: “They are like unto children [παιδάρια] sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept.”

Matthew 18:3: “And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children [παιδιάρια], ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Example 1: Plato, The Republic: “Education shapes the young child [παιδάριον] and molds the character towards virtue.”

Example 2: Xenophon, Memorabilia: “Socrates advised that a boy [παιδάριον] should learn from those who embody good character.”

Example 3: Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “A proper upbringing for a child [παιδάριον] fosters moral development from a young age.”

Septuagint Example 1: Isaiah 11:6: “And a little child [παιδίον] shall lead them.”

Septuagint Example 2: Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child [παιδίον] in the way he should go.”

Septuagint Example 3: Exodus 2:6: “And when she had opened it, she saw the child [παιδίον]; and behold, the babe wept.”

Noteworthy Summary

The term παιδάριον (paidárion) is a Greek noun that captures the essence of childhood, embodying themes of innocence, youth, and potential. Its usage in both classical and biblical literature highlights the importance of nurturing and guiding the young.

Did You Know?

1. The concept of childhood in ancient Greece was significantly different from modern interpretations, often seen as a transitional phase requiring guidance.

2. In biblical texts, παιδάριον emphasizes the value of childlike faith, suggesting that such simplicity is essential for spiritual understanding.

3. The diminutive form of παιδάριον shows affection and care, reflecting the nurturing aspect of education in antiquity.

Strong’s G3808: παιδάριον (paidárion) means “little child,” highlighting the innocence and importance of nurturing young children in both educational and spiritual contexts.