G3856:

Brief Overview of παραδειγματίζω (Strong’s G3856: paradeigmatízō)

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb παραδειγματίζω (paradeigmatízō) primarily means “to set an example” or “to exhibit” in a way that serves as a model for others. This term conveys the idea of demonstrating behavior or attributes that others may follow or learn from. Its significance is particularly highlighted in the New Testament, as it relates to moral and ethical teachings. The word is derived from the noun παράδειγμα (paradeigma), which means “example” or “pattern,” combined with the verb suffix -τίζω (-tízō), which indicates the act of demonstrating or exhibiting. This term encourages followers to embody the teachings and values that are presented to them.

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Necessary Information

Greek Word: παραδειγματίζω (paradeigmatízō) [pah-rah-dee-ghma-TEE-zoh]

Etymology: The word is a compound of παράδειγμα (paradeigma) meaning “example” or “pattern,” and the suffix -τίζω (-tízō), which indicates the action of exhibiting or demonstrating.

Part of Speech: Verb. παραδειγματίζω is a regular verb used in various tenses, primarily in the present and aorist, and is typically found in the indicative mood.

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

Defining Meanings

To set an example: The primary meaning of παραδειγματίζω is to demonstrate behavior or actions that others can imitate.

To exhibit: This meaning emphasizes showing or presenting qualities, actions, or teachings in a way that others can observe and learn from.

To model behavior: The term can also imply the act of providing a pattern for others to follow, particularly in moral or ethical contexts.

Exploring Similar Words

παράδειγμα (paradeigma) [pah-rah-DEE-ghma]: This noun means “example” or “pattern” and is the root of παραδειγματίζω. While it refers to the example itself, παραδειγματίζω emphasizes the action of demonstrating that example.

δείκνυμι (deiknymi) [DAYK-noo-mee]: This verb means “to show” or “to demonstrate” and focuses more on the act of revealing something rather than setting a pattern or example for others to follow.

παραβολή (parabolē) [pah-rah-bo-LEE]: This noun means “parable” and involves teaching a lesson through a story. Unlike παραδειγματίζω, which emphasizes example-setting, παραβολή emphasizes narrative and indirect teaching.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: παραδειγματίζω is primarily found in the present and aorist tenses, in the indicative mood, and the active voice.

Person and Number: Examples of conjugation include:

• 1st person singular: παραδειγματίζω (I set an example)

• 2nd person singular: παραδειγματίζεις (You set an example)

• 3rd person singular: παραδειγματίζει (He/She/It sets an example)

Aspect: The verb typically indicates an ongoing action in the present tense, while the aorist tense conveys a completed action of setting an example at a specific point in time.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In various Greek lexicons, παραδειγματίζω is recognized for its significance in moral and ethical instruction. BDAG emphasizes its use in the New Testament as a means of encouraging believers to embody the teachings of Christ. Thayer’s provides a broad understanding of the term, noting its role in presenting a model for behavior. LSJ highlights its application in classical texts, where setting an example was a crucial component of pedagogy and social interaction. Vine’s connects it to the teachings of Jesus and the apostolic instructions to early Christians. Strong’s notes its importance in moral and ethical contexts, while LEH and Moulton and Milligan underscore its relevance in the literature of the time, emphasizing its role in both religious and philosophical discussions.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 1:19: “And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.” (παραδειγματίζω)

1 Peter 2:21: “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example (παραδειγματίζω), so that you might follow in his steps.”

John 13:15: “For I have given you an example (παραδειγματίζω), that you also should do just as I have done to you.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, παραδειγματίζω is used in contexts that emphasize teaching and demonstrating behavior.

Plato, The Republic: “The philosopher sets an example (παραδειγματίζω) for the guardians to follow in the pursuit of justice.”

Aristotle, Ethics: “The virtuous man exhibits behavior (παραδειγματίζω) that serves as a model for others.”

Xenophon, Memorabilia: “Socrates was known to demonstrate (παραδειγματίζω) ethical principles through his actions.”

In the Septuagint, the word’s meaning is conveyed similarly.

Septuagint Example 1: Exodus 18:20: “You shall teach them the statutes and the laws, and make known to them the way in which they must walk and what they must do (παραδειγματίζω).”

Septuagint Example 2: Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it (παραδειγματίζω).”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 28:9: “To whom will he teach knowledge, and to whom will he explain the message (παραδειγματίζω)?”

Noteworthy Summary

The verb παραδειγματίζω is significant in both biblical and classical contexts for its emphasis on setting an example for others to follow. Its usage highlights the importance of modeling behavior, especially in ethical and moral teachings.

Did You Know?

The use of παραδειγματίζω in the New Testament underscores the role of Jesus and the apostles in providing clear examples for the early Church to emulate.

This term reflects the broader Greek cultural context of teaching through demonstration, which was central to education and philosophical discourse.

In Matthew 1:19, the character of Joseph is portrayed as an example of righteousness and moral integrity, illustrating the importance of setting an example even in difficult situations.

Strong’s G3856: παραδειγματίζω (paradeigmatízō) means “to set an example” or “to exhibit,” emphasizing the importance of modeling behavior and teaching, particularly relevant in ethical contexts.

Part of Speech: Verb

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, theology, language, vocabulary, word study, example, teaching, ethics