G3850:
Unveiling the Word
The Greek word παραβολή (parabole) translates to “parable” or “comparison.” It is derived from the verb παραβάλλω (paraballō), which means “to place beside” or “to compare.” This term is significant in biblical texts, especially in the teachings of Jesus, where it often refers to simple stories used to illustrate moral or spiritual lessons. The concept of a parable allows for complex ideas to be conveyed in an accessible manner, making profound truths easier to understand through relatable imagery. In Luke 24:29, the usage of παραβολή indicates the importance of storytelling in conveying the message of faith and understanding God’s kingdom.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: παραβολή (parabole) [par-ab-oh-LAY]
Etymology: The word combines παρά (para, “beside”) with βάλλω (ballō, “to throw”), suggesting the idea of throwing or placing two concepts side by side for comparison.
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Part of Speech: Noun; it is a feminine noun used primarily to refer to a type of teaching method or literary device.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
1. Parable: This primary meaning denotes a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson, often featuring everyday events and relatable characters.
2. Comparison: This definition emphasizes the act of placing two ideas or concepts alongside each other to highlight their similarities or differences.
3. Illustration: In a broader sense, παραβολή can refer to any illustrative example that elucidates a particular truth or principle.
Exploring Similar Words
1. παραβολαί (parabolai) [par-ab-oh-LIE]: This term is the plural form of παραβολή and refers to multiple parables or comparisons.
2. ἀλληγορία (allegoria) [al-lay-GOR-ee-ah]: Meaning “allegory,” this term refers to a story or narrative that conveys a deeper meaning beyond the literal interpretation, differing from παραβολή, which is typically more straightforward.
3. μύθος (mythos) [MEE-thos]: Translated as “myth” or “story,” this term can refer to any narrative but is not limited to moral or spiritual lessons like παραβολή.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
For Nouns:
• Case, Number, Gender: παραβολή is in the nominative case, singular number, and feminine gender.
• Declension: It follows the standard pattern for feminine nouns in the first declension.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The term παραβολή is well-documented in Greek lexicons, reflecting its significance in both biblical and classical contexts. In the New Testament, it is prominently featured in the teachings of Jesus, serving as a vital tool for imparting complex theological concepts through relatable stories. Theologically, parables reveal the nature of God’s kingdom and challenge listeners to think deeply about their faith and moral decisions. In classical literature, the concept of comparison is also explored, but with a focus on broader philosophical ideas, often serving to illustrate various principles in moral philosophy and ethics.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
• Matthew 13:3: “And he told them many things in parables (παραβολή), saying: ‘A sower went out to sow.’”
• Mark 4:2: “And he was teaching them many things in parables (παραβολή), and in his teaching he said to them…”
• Luke 8:4: “And when a great crowd was gathering and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable (παραβολή): ‘A sower went out to sow his seed.’”
Analyzing Classical Usage
In classical Greek literature, παραβολή is utilized to express the concept of comparison and illustration.
• Plato, in The Republic, uses comparisons and allegorical stories to discuss the nature of justice and the ideal state, serving a function similar to biblical parables.
• Aristotle, in Poetics, discusses the use of metaphors and comparisons in storytelling, highlighting how they contribute to effective communication of complex ideas.
• Aesop, in his fables, frequently employs παραβολή-like structures to convey moral lessons through relatable animal characters.
In the Septuagint, the idea of comparison and illustration is present:
• Proverbs 1:6: “To understand a proverb (παραβολή) and a saying, the words of the wise and their riddles.”
• Ezekiel 17:2: “Son of man, pose a riddle (παραβολή) and speak a parable (παραβολή) to the house of Israel…”
• Ecclesiastes 12:9: “Besides being wise, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge, weighing and studying and arranging many proverbs (παραβολή).”
Noteworthy Summary
The term παραβολή captures the essence of storytelling and moral teaching, vital for understanding the nature of Jesus’ teachings and the methods used to convey spiritual truths. Its usage highlights the importance of illustration and comparison in both biblical and philosophical discourse.
Did You Know?
Did you know that παραβολή is a key literary device used by Jesus to convey complex spiritual truths through simple, relatable stories?
Did you know that many of the world’s most famous stories, such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son, are classified as parables (παραβολή)?
Did you know that understanding παραβολή can enhance your interpretation of biblical texts and deepen your appreciation for their moral and spiritual lessons?
Strong’s G3850: παραβολή (parabole) means “parable” or “comparison,” highlighting the importance of storytelling in teaching and understanding moral and spiritual truths.
Categories
• Nouns
• Bible Concepts & Themes
Tags
• Parable
• Comparison
• Illustration
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