G3846:

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word παραβάλλω (paraballō) translates to “to throw beside” or “to compare.” It is a compound verb formed from the prefix παρά (para), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and the verb βάλλω (ballō), meaning “to throw.” This combination suggests a sense of placing one thing next to another for the purpose of comparison or contrast. The significance of παραβάλλω in biblical texts often revolves around the idea of evaluating or assessing different concepts, principles, or teachings in relation to one another. In Mark 4:30, for instance, Jesus uses the term in the context of comparing the kingdom of God to a mustard seed, illustrating the contrast between its small beginnings and great potential.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: παραβάλλω (paraballō) [par-ah-VAL-lo]

Etymology: The word is derived from the combination of παρά (para, “beside”) and βάλλω (ballō, “to throw”), indicating the act of placing or throwing something next to another for comparison.

Part of Speech: Verb; it is an active verb that conveys an action performed by the subject.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. To compare: This primary meaning emphasizes the act of evaluating two or more items alongside each other to discern similarities or differences.

2. To juxtapose: This definition reflects the idea of placing items beside each other to highlight contrasts, often used in discussions of moral or spiritual lessons.

3. To assess: In a broader sense, παραβάλλω can imply making judgments based on comparisons, whether in a physical, ethical, or theological context.

Exploring Similar Words

1. συγκρίνω (synkrinō) [seen-KREE-no]: This verb means “to compare” or “to analyze,” similar to παραβάλλω, but it often emphasizes the analytical process rather than the physical act of placing items beside each other.

2. ἐπιβάλλω (epiballō) [ep-ee-BAL-lo]: Meaning “to throw upon” or “to impose,” this term differs from παραβάλλω by focusing more on imposition than on comparative assessment.

3. ἀναβάλλω (anaballō) [an-ah-BAL-lo]: Translated as “to throw back” or “to delay,” this verb implies a different action entirely, focusing on postponement rather than comparison.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

• Tense, Voice, Mood: παραβάλλω can appear in various tenses (present, aorist, perfect), typically in the active voice and indicative mood.

• Person and Number: Examples of conjugation include:

• 1st person singular: παραβάλλω (I compare)

• 2nd person singular: παραβάλλεις (you compare)

• 3rd person singular: παραβάλλει (he/she/it compares)

• Aspect: The verb typically denotes imperfective aspect when in the present tense, suggesting ongoing or repeated action, while in the aorist tense, it indicates a completed action.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term παραβάλλω is well-documented in Greek lexicons, reflecting its significance in both classical and biblical contexts. In the New Testament, it frequently appears in parabolic teachings of Jesus, where comparisons are drawn to illustrate deeper spiritual truths. Theologically, παραβάλλω highlights the importance of understanding God’s kingdom in relation to worldly values, emphasizing how divine principles may contrast sharply with human expectations. In classical literature, the term is often used to discuss philosophical concepts, where juxtaposition plays a crucial role in deriving meaning or understanding.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Mark 4:30: “And he said, ‘With what can we compare (παραβάλλω) the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it?’”

• Luke 13:18: “He said therefore, ‘What is the kingdom of God like, and to what shall I compare (παραβάλλω) it?’”

• Romans 9:32: “Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, as it is written, ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.’”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, παραβάλλω is utilized to express the concept of comparison and assessment.

• Plato, in The Republic, discusses the idea of justice by comparing different forms of government, emphasizing the need to juxtapose them to understand the ideal state.

• Aristotle, in Nicomachean Ethics, uses the term to analyze virtues by placing them beside vices, thereby illustrating the importance of balance in ethical conduct.

• Herodotus, in Histories, often employs the term when recounting events, comparing the actions of different nations to highlight their moral standings.

In the Septuagint, παραβάλλω may not appear directly, but the concept of comparison is reflected in various contexts:

• Proverbs 3:15: “She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare (παραβάλλω) with her.”

• Ecclesiastes 1:2: “Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity (παραβάλλω).”

• Isaiah 40:18: “To whom then will you liken (παραβάλλω) God, or what likeness compare with him?”

Noteworthy Summary

The term παραβάλλω captures the essence of comparison and assessment, essential for understanding the dynamics of teaching and moral reasoning in both biblical and classical contexts. Its usage emphasizes the importance of evaluating concepts and principles against one another to derive deeper insights.

Did You Know?

Did you know that παραβάλλω is often used by Jesus to illustrate profound spiritual truths through relatable comparisons?

Did you know that understanding παραβάλλω can enhance one’s interpretation of parables and teachings in the New Testament?

Did you know that the practice of comparison in philosophy and ethics has its roots in the same Greek tradition that informs the use of παραβάλλω in the New Testament?

Strong’s G3846: παραβάλλω (paraballō) means “to throw beside” or “to compare,” highlighting the significance of assessment and juxtaposition in understanding moral and spiritual truths.

Categories

• Verbs

• Bible Concepts & Themes

Tags

• Comparison

• Assessment

• Spiritual Teachings