G3855:

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb παράγω (parághō) primarily means “to pass by,” “to go by,” or “to lead away.” It has a rich context within biblical texts, particularly in narratives that involve movement or transition. This word is notably used in Matthew 9:9, where Jesus calls Matthew, the tax collector, to follow Him. The term carries both physical and metaphorical meanings, suggesting not only the act of moving past something but also the significance of that movement in spiritual and relational contexts. Etymologically, παράγω derives from the prefix παρά (pará), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and the verb ἄγω (ágō), meaning “to lead” or “to bring.” This combination emphasizes the act of leading alongside or passing by an important point.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: παράγω (parághō) [pah-RAH-ghoh]

Etymology: The word is a compound of παρά (pará) and ἄγω (ágō). The prefix suggests proximity or parallel movement, while the root indicates the act of leading or bringing. This reflects the word’s dual nature of physical movement and relational significance.

Part of Speech: Verb. παράγω is typically used in the active voice and can appear in various moods and tenses, primarily in the present tense.

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

Defining Meanings

To pass by: The primary meaning of παράγω is to move past or go by a particular place or person.

To lead away: A secondary meaning involves leading someone away from a situation or context, often with an implication of change.

To go alongside: The term can also imply accompanying someone in their journey or transition, suggesting a relational aspect in the process of moving.

Exploring Similar Words

ἄγω (ágō) [AH-ghoh]: This verb means “to lead” or “to bring” and emphasizes the action of guiding someone rather than merely passing by, contrasting with the more transient nature of παράγω.

παραγγέλλω (parangellō) [pah-rahn-GHEL-loh]: Meaning “to command,” this word differs from παράγω in its focus on giving directives rather than the act of moving or passing by.

συναγωγή (synagōgē) [soo-nah-go-GHEE]: This noun means “gathering” or “assembly,” which contrasts with the idea of passing by, as it emphasizes coming together rather than moving past.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: παράγω is primarily found in the present tense, indicative mood, and active voice, highlighting ongoing action.

Person and Number: Examples of conjugation include:

• 1st person singular: παράγω (I pass by)

• 2nd person singular: παράγεις (You pass by)

• 3rd person singular: παράγει (He/She/It passes by)

Aspect: The verb exhibits an imperfective aspect, indicating a continuous or habitual action rather than a completed one, which enhances its usage in narrative contexts.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In various Greek lexicons, παράγω is recognized for its significant role in biblical narratives and classical texts. BDAG emphasizes its use in contexts that highlight the importance of movement, particularly in instances of divine calling and transformation, such as Jesus calling Matthew. Thayer’s explains the broader meanings of passing by and leading away, providing examples from both secular and sacred texts. LSJ discusses its application in various classical contexts, focusing on the nuances of transition and movement. Vine’s connects it to themes of following and discipleship, especially in the New Testament. Strong’s notes its narrative importance, while LEH and Moulton and Milligan underscore its relevance in describing interactions and transitions in ancient texts.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 9:9: “As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ (παράγω)”

Mark 2:14: “And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ (παράγω)”

Luke 5:27: “After this, he went out and saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at the tax booth. ‘Follow me,’ he said to him. (παράγω)”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, παράγω appears in contexts emphasizing movement and transition.

Homer, Iliad: “Achilles passed by (παράγω) the assembled warriors, their hearts filled with dread.”

Plato, Republic: “The philosopher leads (παράγω) his companions towards truth and understanding.”

Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “The wise man must know when to pass by (παράγω) the distractions of life.”

In the Septuagint, the word conveys similar meanings of movement and transition.

Septuagint Example 1: Genesis 18:2: “He lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing (παράγω) before him.”

Septuagint Example 2: Exodus 3:4: “When the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, saying, ‘Moses, Moses!’ and he said, ‘Here I am.’ (παράγω)”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 40:3: “A voice cries: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.’ (παράγω)”

Noteworthy Summary

The verb παράγω is significant in both biblical and classical contexts, illustrating the importance of movement and transition in narratives. Its emphasis on passing by and leading away reflects deeper spiritual and relational themes, especially in the context of Jesus’ ministry.

Did You Know?

The term παράγω is often associated with significant moments of divine calling, highlighting how Jesus interacted with His followers.

In the New Testament, the usage of παράγω illustrates the transformative nature of following Jesus, marking a transition from one life to another.

The word also appears in classical literature, emphasizing the importance of understanding movement and direction in philosophical discussions.

Strong’s G3855: παράγω (parághō) means “to pass by” or “to lead away,” emphasizing movement and transformation, particularly in significant biblical events.

Part of Speech: Verb

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, theology, language, vocabulary, word study, movement, transition, discipleship