G3852:

Unveiling the Word

The Greek noun παραγγελία (parangelía) primarily means “a command” or “an order.” It conveys the idea of an authoritative instruction given by someone in a position of authority, often implying a level of urgency or importance. The term is significant in the context of both the New Testament and classical literature, highlighting the dynamics of power and obedience within social and religious structures. Its roots lie in the verb παραγγέλλω (parangellō), which means “to command” or “to order.” This connection emphasizes the verbal aspect of issuing commands, where the spoken word carries the weight of authority.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: παραγγελία (parangelía) [pah-rahn-gheh-LEE-ah]

Etymology: The word derives from παραγγέλλω (parangellō), composed of the prefix παρά (pará), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and the root γέλλω (gellō), which relates to the act of speaking or declaring. Together, they convey the idea of delivering a message or command alongside another person.

Part of Speech: Noun. παραγγελία is a feminine noun, typically found in the nominative case in singular forms, but it can also appear in plural forms depending on its usage in context.

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

Defining Meanings

Command: The primary meaning of παραγγελία is a direct order or command issued by someone in authority.

Instruction: It can also refer to a specific instruction given to carry out a task, emphasizing the directive nature of the word.

Notification: In some contexts, it may convey the idea of an announcement or notification, particularly when it pertains to a significant event or directive.

Exploring Similar Words

παραγγέλλω (parangellō) [pah-rahn-GHEL-loh]: This verb form emphasizes the action of giving a command or order, focusing on the act of speaking the command rather than the command itself.

ἐντολή (entolē) [en-toh-LEE]: This word means “command” or “instruction,” often used in a more general sense than παραγγελία, which carries a more specific context of authority and urgency.

διάταγμα (diatagma) [dee-AH-tahg-mah]: This term refers to a decree or edict, typically issued by a government authority, which differs from παραγγελία in its broader application and official context.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

Case, Number, Gender: παραγγελία is a feminine noun and can appear in various cases. In the nominative singular, it is παραγγελία; in the genitive singular, it is παραγγελίας; and in the accusative singular, it remains παραγγελίαν. In the plural, the nominative is παραγγελίαι.

Declension: As a feminine noun of the first declension, παραγγελία follows typical patterns found in Greek nouns, allowing it to adapt in case and number according to its role in the sentence.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term παραγγελία appears across various Greek lexicons with nuances that enhance its understanding. BDAG highlights its authoritative implications, particularly in the context of the early Church’s structure, where commands were integral to communal order. Thayer’s defines it broadly as a command, noting its applications in both secular and sacred contexts. LSJ presents it with an emphasis on the social dynamics of commands within communities, while Vine’s connects it to New Testament themes of obedience and authority. Strong’s underscores its usage as a directive in scripture, particularly in instances where apostles relay divine commands. LEH notes variations in meaning across contexts, especially its function in narrative structures. Moulton and Milligan highlight its presence in classical texts, underscoring its significance in Hellenistic society.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Acts 5:28: “We gave you strict orders (παραγγελία) not to teach in this name.”

1 Timothy 1:3: “As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command (παραγγελία) certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer.”

2 John 1:6: “And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands (παραγγελία). As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, παραγγελία appears in various contexts that illuminate its meaning.

Xenophon, Memorabilia: “The generals issued a command (παραγγελία) to the troops to prepare for battle.”

Plato, Republic: “He gave the command (παραγγελία) to the citizens to follow the law diligently.”

Aristotle, Politics: “The rulers provided commands (παραγγελία) to maintain order within the city-state.”

In the Septuagint, similar themes are evident.

Septuagint Example 1: Exodus 34:32: “And he gave a command (παραγγελία) to the people regarding their offerings.”

Septuagint Example 2: Deuteronomy 5:5: “Moses commanded (παραγγελία) us to observe the covenant faithfully.”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 38:5: “Go and tell Hezekiah the command (παραγγελία) that I have sent you.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word παραγγελία serves as a pivotal term denoting commands and instructions within both the New Testament and classical literature. Its significance in conveying authority and the necessity for obedience reflects the social and religious dynamics of its time.

Did You Know?

The term παραγγελία is frequently associated with authoritative figures, such as apostles and leaders, underscoring the hierarchy in early Christian communities.

In Acts 5:28, the strictness of the command highlights the tension between religious authority and the emerging Christian movement.

The use of παραγγελία emphasizes the weight of spoken directives, illustrating the power of language in shaping behavior and belief.

Strong’s G3852: παραγγελία (parangelía) means “a command” or “an order,” highlighting authority and urgency in directives, particularly relevant in early Christian contexts.

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, theology, language, vocabulary, word study, authority, commands, Epistles