G3858:

Brief Overview of παραδέχομαι (Strong’s G3858: paradéchomai)

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb παραδέχομαι (paradéchomai) primarily means “to receive” or “to accept.” It encompasses a range of contexts, from physically accepting an object to more abstract concepts of embracing ideas, teachings, or individuals. This term is significant in both everyday language and theological discourse, especially within the New Testament. In Mark 4:20, it is used to describe those who receive the word of God with joy, illustrating a spiritual openness and acceptance. Etymologically, the word is derived from the prefix παρά (pará), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and δέχομαι (déchomai), which means “to take” or “to receive.” This combination conveys the idea of receiving something offered alongside oneself, highlighting an active engagement with what is being presented.

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Necessary Information

Greek Word: παραδέχομαι (paradéchomai) [pah-rah-DEH-kho-my]

Etymology: The word is composed of παρά (pará), meaning “beside,” and δέχομαι (déchomai), meaning “to receive.” This construction emphasizes an acceptance that is relational and intentional.

Part of Speech: Verb. παραδέχομαι is a deponent verb, meaning it appears in a passive form but carries an active meaning. It is used primarily in the present tense and can also appear in aorist and perfect tenses.

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

Defining Meanings

To receive: The primary meaning refers to the act of accepting something offered, whether it be a physical object, a gift, or an idea.

To embrace: This term can also imply a deeper, more emotional acceptance, such as embracing a belief or teaching.

To welcome: Another meaning involves extending hospitality or openness to others, particularly in social or religious contexts.

Exploring Similar Words

δέχομαι (déchomai) [DEH-kho-my]: This is the root verb meaning “to take” or “to receive,” but it does not carry the same connotation of relational or alongside acceptance as παραδέχομαι does.

παραλαμβάνω (paralambánō) [pah-rah-lahm-BAH-noh]: This verb means “to take alongside” or “to receive.” It often indicates receiving with an emphasis on taking into one’s possession or inclusion.

συγκατατίθεμαι (synkatatíthēmai) [soon-kah-tah-TEE-thay-my]: This term means “to agree” or “to accept a proposal.” It focuses more on consensus rather than the personal act of receiving.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: παραδέχομαι is primarily found in the present tense, indicative mood, and middle voice, signifying ongoing action or states of receiving.

Person and Number: Examples of conjugation include:

• 1st person singular: παραδέχομαι (I receive)

• 2nd person singular: παραδέχῃ (You receive)

• 3rd person singular: παραδέχεται (He/She/It receives)

Aspect: The verb typically reflects an imperfective aspect, emphasizing the continuous nature of receiving, rather than a one-time event.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In various Greek lexicons, παραδέχομαι is analyzed for its broad implications in both secular and theological contexts. BDAG highlights its significance in the context of the teachings of Jesus, particularly in how individuals respond to divine truth. Thayer’s notes that it often conveys a sense of hospitality or openness, essential in early Christian communities. LSJ discusses its usage in classical texts, indicating a general acceptance that could range from physical items to abstract concepts. Vine’s connects it to themes of receiving grace and salvation, while Strong’s reiterates its importance in the reception of God’s word and teachings. LEH and Moulton and Milligan further elaborate on its application in various historical contexts, emphasizing its role in social and religious interactions.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Mark 4:20: “But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it (παραδέχομαι) and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”

Luke 8:15: “As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.” (παραδέχομαι)

Acts 17:11: “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received (παραδέχομαι) the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, παραδέχομαι is used in contexts that emphasize acceptance and openness.

Plato, Republic: “To receive (παραδέχομαι) the truth is the highest form of enlightenment for the philosopher.”

Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “A virtuous person embraces (παραδέχομαι) the good, striving to make it their own.”

Xenophon, Anabasis: “The soldiers accepted (παραδέχομαι) the leadership of their general with trust and commitment.”

In the Septuagint, the term is similarly relevant.

Septuagint Example 1: Exodus 12:24: “You shall observe this rite as a statute for you and for your sons forever.” (παραδέχομαι)

Septuagint Example 2: Isaiah 66:2: “All these things my hand has made, and so all these things came to be, declares the Lord. But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.” (παραδέχομαι)

Septuagint Example 3: Jeremiah 31:33: “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” (παραδέχομαι)

Noteworthy Summary

The verb παραδέχομαι is significant in both biblical and classical contexts for its emphasis on the act of receiving and embracing. Its usage reflects deeper themes of acceptance, hospitality, and openness to ideas, teachings, and divine truths.

Did You Know?

The term παραδέχομαι illustrates the importance of receptivity in the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing how followers should respond to His message.

In the New Testament, the act of receiving the word of God is often associated with growth and fruitfulness in faith.

The concept of acceptance in ancient Greek culture often extended to hospitality, reflecting the values of community and relational engagement.

Strong’s G3858: παραδέχομαι (paradéchomai) means “to receive” or “to accept,” emphasizing the importance of openness and hospitality, particularly in spiritual contexts.

Part of Speech: Verb

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, theology, language, vocabulary, word study, reception, acceptance, hospitality