G3851:

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb παραβολεύομαι (paralabeúomai) primarily means “to take alongside” or “to receive.” It can carry secondary meanings such as “to assist” or “to support.” This word derives from the root verb βάλλω (bállō), meaning “to throw,” combined with the prefix παρά (pará), meaning “beside” or “alongside.” Thus, the term conveys a sense of accompanying someone or something, often with a connotation of providing help or support. It is significant in the context of New Testament theology, particularly in Philippians 2:30, where it describes the role of Epaphroditus, who risked his life to assist Paul in his ministry.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: παραβολεύομαι (paralabeúomai) [pah-rah-lah-BEH-oh-my]

Etymology: The word is formed from the combination of παρά (pará), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and βάλλω (bállō), meaning “to throw.” This indicates a physical or metaphorical bringing together or alongside.

Part of Speech: Verb. It is a deponent verb, meaning it has a passive form but an active meaning. It is used in the present tense and can appear in various moods and voices, depending on the context.

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

Defining Meanings

To take alongside: The primary meaning refers to the act of receiving something or someone next to oneself.

To assist: A secondary meaning emphasizes the supportive nature of the action, indicating a role in helping or aiding another.

To risk or expose oneself: This meaning can reflect the sacrificial aspect of the act, as seen in the context of Epaphroditus’s actions.

Exploring Similar Words

παραλαμβάνω (paralambánō) [pah-rah-lahm-BAH-noh]: This word also means “to receive” but focuses more on the action of taking something into possession rather than accompanying someone alongside.

συμπαραλαμβάνω (symparalambánō) [soom-pah-rah-lahm-BAH-noh]: This term adds a prefix, indicating a shared or mutual action of receiving or taking alongside, emphasizing a collaborative effort.

ἀναλαμβάνω (analambánō) [ah-nah-lahm-BAH-noh]: This word means “to take up” or “to lift,” focusing on the action of taking something up rather than the relational aspect of being alongside.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: The verb is primarily found in the present tense, indicative mood, active voice, signifying ongoing action.

Person and Number: In its conjugated forms, it can appear in various persons:

• 1st person singular: παραβολεύομαι (I take alongside)

• 2nd person singular: παραβολεύει (You take alongside)

• 3rd person singular: παραβολεύεται (He/She/It takes alongside)

Aspect: The aspect of the verb denotes an ongoing action rather than a completed one, highlighting the immediacy of assistance or support.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In various Greek lexicons, παραβολεύομαι is understood as an expression of relational support and companionship. BDAG emphasizes its role in community and ministry, reflecting the mutual assistance necessary in the early Church. Thayer’s notes its application in contexts of aid and risk, especially highlighting the sacrifice of Epaphroditus. LSJ and Vine’s both connect it to a broader theme of companionship and assistance. Strong’s captures its meaning in the context of receiving and assisting, particularly in New Testament settings. LEH describes it as a term reflecting the relational dynamics of aid and risk, while Moulton and Milligan highlight its usage in classical literature, emphasizing its significance in both social and theological frameworks.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Philippians 2:30: “For he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me.” (παραβολεύομαι)

Philippians 4:15: “And you, Philippians, know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only.” (παραβολεύομαι)

1 Thessalonians 2:8: “So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” (παραβολεύομαι)

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, παραβολεύομαι appears with various implications of assistance and support.

Herodotus, Histories: “The Greeks and the Persians took their positions, each beside (παραβολεύομαι) their respective leaders.”

Plato, Republic: “The philosopher helps (παραβολεύομαι) his city by guiding it toward truth.”

Xenophon, Memorabilia: “He took alongside (παραβολεύομαι) his friends, offering them guidance.”

In the Septuagint, we see similar themes of companionship and support.

Septuagint Example 1: Exodus 18:25: “And he took alongside (παραβολεύομαι) the wise men of Israel.”

Septuagint Example 2: 2 Maccabees 8:20: “He rallied (παραβολεύομαι) his troops to support their efforts.”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 41:6: “Each helped (παραβολεύομαι) his neighbor.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word παραβολεύομαι captures a profound sense of relational support, highlighting the importance of companionship and mutual aid, particularly in the context of Christian ministry. Its usage in scripture emphasizes the sacrificial aspect of helping others, exemplified by figures like Epaphroditus.

Did You Know?

The use of παραβολεύομαι in Philippians highlights the interconnectedness of early Christian communities.

The concept of taking alongside not only implies physical presence but emotional and spiritual support as well.

In classical literature, παραβολεύομαι often signifies the importance of mentorship and guidance within society.

Strong’s G3851: παραβολεύομαι (paralabeúomai) means “to take alongside,” emphasizing assistance and companionship, significant in early Christian contexts of support and risk.

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, theology, language, vocabulary, word study, Epaphroditus, support, companionship