G3848:

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word παραβάτης (parabates) translates to “transgressor” or “one who transgresses.” It derives from the verb παραβαίνω (parabainō), which means “to go beyond” or “to violate.” The prefix παρά (para) implies a sense of crossing over or stepping aside from established boundaries, while the root βαίνω (bainō) means “to go” or “to walk.” As such, παραβάτης emphasizes not just the act of transgression but also the individual who commits it. The term is significant in biblical texts, where it often denotes those who fail to adhere to God’s commandments or moral laws. In Romans 2:25, Paul refers to the idea that a person who is a transgressor (παραβάτης) of the law will be judged accordingly, highlighting the implications of failing to uphold divine statutes.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: παραβάτης (parabates) [par-ah-BAH-tays]

Etymology: The word is derived from παραβαίνω (parabainō), meaning “to transgress,” which combines the prefix παρά (para, “beside”) and βαίνω (bainō, “to go”).

Part of Speech: Noun; it is a masculine noun that identifies a person characterized by the act of transgression.

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

Defining Meanings

1. Transgressor: This primary meaning indicates someone who violates a law, commandment, or moral code, emphasizing the personal aspect of the act.

2. Lawbreaker: This definition highlights the legal implications of the term, suggesting that a παραβάτης is someone who not only breaks rules but also incurs guilt or liability as a result.

3. Sinner: In a broader theological context, παραβάτης can refer to anyone who deviates from God’s laws, underscoring the notion of human fallibility and moral failing.

Exploring Similar Words

1. παραβάτης (parabates) [par-ah-BAH-tees]: This term is synonymous with παραβάτης and also means “transgressor.” The difference lies primarily in usage rather than meaning.

2. ἁμαρτωλός (hamartōlos) [ham-ar-TOH-los]: This word translates to “sinner” and emphasizes moral failure more broadly, while παραβάτης specifically refers to transgressions of laws.

3. ἀνομία (anomia) [ah-NO-mee-ah]: Meaning “lawlessness,” this term focuses on a state of being without law, which relates to παραβάτης but underscores a more general absence of adherence to any law.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

• Case, Number, Gender: παραβάτης is in the nominative case, singular number, and masculine gender.

• Declension: It follows the standard pattern for masculine nouns in the second declension.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term παραβάτης is well-represented in Greek lexicons, reflecting its importance in both biblical and classical contexts. In the New Testament, it frequently appears in discussions about the consequences of sin and the moral obligations of individuals. Theologically, παραβάτης emphasizes the need for accountability and the dangers of hypocrisy, especially among those who claim to uphold the law. In classical literature, the concept of the transgressor is often explored in terms of personal ethics and societal norms, highlighting the consequences of failing to adhere to established moral principles.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Romans 2:25: “For circumcision indeed is of value if you obey the law, but if you break (παραβάτης) the law, your circumcision becomes uncircumcision.”

• James 2:9: “But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers (παραβάτης).”

• 1 John 3:4: “Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness (παραβάτης).”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, παραβάτης is utilized to express the concept of moral and legal transgression.

• Plato, in The Republic, discusses the consequences of transgressing (παραβάτης) societal laws and the impact on both the individual and the community.

• Aristotle, in Nicomachean Ethics, emphasizes the moral responsibilities of individuals, highlighting how a παραβάτης undermines ethical living.

• Sophocles, in Antigone, depicts characters who confront the ramifications of their transgressions (παραβάτης) against divine and human laws.

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

• Exodus 20:5: “You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity (παραβάτης) of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.”

• Psalm 32:1: “Blessed is the one whose transgression (παραβάτης) is forgiven, whose sin is covered.”

• Isaiah 43:24: “You have burdened me with your sins; you have wearied me with your iniquities (παραβάτης).”

Noteworthy Summary

The term παραβάτης encapsulates the essence of transgression and violation, particularly in relation to moral and divine laws. Its usage in biblical and classical contexts highlights the importance of adhering to established boundaries and the consequences of straying from them.

Did You Know?

Did you know that παραβάτης emphasizes not just a single act of transgression but a pattern of behavior that leads one away from divine commandments?

Did you know that the usage of παραβάτης in the New Testament often highlights the tension between believers’ actions and their claims of righteousness?

Did you know that understanding παραβάτης can enhance the interpretation of biblical texts that deal with moral and ethical responsibilities?

Strong’s G3848: παραβάτης (parabates) means “transgressor” or “one who transgresses,” highlighting the importance of maintaining moral and ethical boundaries in both biblical and philosophical discussions.

Categories

• Nouns

• Bible Concepts & Themes

Tags

• Transgression

• Morality

• Violation