G3869:

Brief Overview of παρακαθέζομαι (Strong’s G3869: parakathézomai)

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb παρακαθέζομαι (parakathézomai) translates to “to sit beside” or “to recline.” It implies a physical position of sitting in close proximity to someone, often conveying a sense of intimacy or companionship. This term appears in Luke 10:39, where it describes Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening to his teaching, highlighting the significance of close proximity and attentiveness in the learning process. The word derives from the prefix παρά (para), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and καθέζομαι (kathezaomai), which means “to sit.” This combination emphasizes not only the physical act of sitting but also the relational dynamics involved in being present with another person.

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Necessary Information

Greek Word: παρακαθέζομαι (parakathézomai) [pah-rah-kah-THEH-zoh-my]

Etymology: The term is derived from παρά (para), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and καθέζομαι (kathezaomai), which refers to the act of sitting. This etymological structure underscores the close, relational aspect of the act of sitting.

Part of Speech: Verb. παρακαθέζομαι is a deponent verb, indicating that it has a middle voice form but carries an active meaning in the context of sitting beside someone.

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

Defining Meanings

To sit beside: The primary meaning refers to the act of physically positioning oneself alongside another person, indicating a close relationship or connection.

To recline: It can also signify the act of reclining or resting in close proximity, often in a relaxed or informal setting, which is significant in ancient dining customs.

To be present: Additionally, the term implies an element of attentiveness and presence, particularly in contexts of learning or companionship.

Exploring Similar Words

καθέζομαι (kathezaomai) [kah-THEH-zoh-my]: This verb simply means “to sit.” While it relates closely to παρακαθέζομαι, it does not convey the connotation of sitting beside someone.

συναθροίζω (synathroízō) [soon-ah-THROH-ee-zoh]: Meaning “to gather together,” this verb emphasizes collective assembly rather than the individual act of sitting beside someone.

ἐπισκέπτομαι (episképtomai) [eh-pees-KEHP-toh-my]: This term means “to visit” or “to look upon.” It emphasizes the relational aspect of presence but in a different context than simply sitting beside someone.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: παρακαθέζομαι primarily appears in the present tense, indicative mood, and middle voice.

Person and Number: Examples of conjugation include:

• 1st person singular: παρακαθῶμαι (I sit beside)

• 2nd person singular: παρακαθῇς (You sit beside)

• 3rd person singular: παρακάθεται (He/She/It sits beside)

Aspect: The verb reflects an imperfective aspect, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the action of sitting beside someone rather than a completed act.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Several Greek lexicons provide valuable insights into παρακαθέζομαι, emphasizing its contextual significance. BDAG notes its use in relational contexts, particularly in the New Testament, where physical proximity often symbolizes spiritual closeness. Thayer’s discusses its implications in social interactions, indicating that sitting beside someone was a marker of fellowship and intimacy in ancient culture. LSJ highlights its occurrence in classical literature, where it often denotes the act of reclining at meals, emphasizing the informal settings in which relationships develop. Vine’s connects it to the broader themes of discipleship, illustrating the significance of sitting with a teacher or mentor. Strong’s reiterates the importance of this term in the context of spiritual learning and relational dynamics. LEH and Moulton and Milligan provide additional context on its usage, showing how physical positioning reflects deeper social and spiritual connections.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 10:39: “And she had a sister called Mary, who sat (παρακαθέζομαι) at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching.”

Mark 10:16: “And he took them in his arms and began blessing them, laying his hands on them.”

Matthew 26:7: “A woman came to him with an alabaster vial of very costly perfume, and she poured it on his head as he reclined (παρακαθέζομαι) at the table.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, παρακαθέζομαι often reflects the social dynamics of sharing space and fostering relationships.

Plato, Symposium: “During the banquet, the guests were reclining (παρακαθέζομαι) in close proximity, sharing ideas and wisdom.”

Aristotle, Rhetoric: “In persuasive speech, sitting beside the audience (παρακαθέζομαι) establishes a connection that facilitates understanding.”

Xenophon, Memorabilia: “Socrates would often invite his students to sit beside him (παρακαθέζομαι) to foster a sense of belonging and learning.”

In the Septuagint, similar themes can be observed.

Septuagint Example 1: Genesis 18:1: “And the Lord appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat (παρακαθέζομαι) at the door of his tent.”

Septuagint Example 2: Proverbs 9:3: “She has sent out her maidens; she calls from the highest places in the town (παρακαθέζομαι).”

Septuagint Example 3: Ecclesiastes 4:8: “One person who has no other, either son or brother, but there is no end to all his toil, and his eyes are never satisfied with riches (παρακαθέζομαι).”

Noteworthy Summary

The verb παρακαθέζομαι is significant in understanding the dynamics of presence and intimacy in both biblical and classical contexts. Its use highlights the importance of physical and relational closeness, especially in contexts of teaching and fellowship. This term enriches the discussions surrounding discipleship, communal relationships, and the nature of learning within spiritual communities.

Did You Know?

In ancient dining customs, reclining (παρακαθέζομαι) was a sign of honor and intimacy, symbolizing closeness in relationships.

The act of sitting beside someone (παρακαθέζομαι) signifies more than physical presence; it conveys emotional and spiritual connection.

In Christian teachings, sitting at Jesus’ feet (παρακαθέζομαι) symbolizes the ideal posture of discipleship, emphasizing the importance of listening and learning from Him.

Strong’s G3869: παρακαθέζομαι (parakathézomai) means “to sit beside” or “to recline,” emphasizing the relational dynamics of presence and learning in both social and spiritual contexts.

Part of Speech: Verb

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, theology, language, vocabulary, word study, sitting beside, discipleship, relational dynamics