G3873:

Brief Overview of παρακαθέζομαι (Strong’s G3873: parakathēzomai)

Unveiling the Word

The Greek term παρακαθέζομαι (parakathēzomai) conveys the act of sitting beside or being positioned alongside something or someone. Its primary meaning involves the physical action of sitting down, often implying a sense of closeness or intimacy. In the context of Luke 10:39, it describes Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus, symbolizing a posture of learning and discipleship. The word’s significance lies not only in its literal interpretation but also in its broader implications for relationships and spiritual engagement within the New Testament narrative. The root components include the prefix παρά (para), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and the root word καθίζω (kathizō), which means “to sit” or “to cause to sit.” This combination suggests a physical closeness, reinforcing the relational dynamics between individuals.

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Necessary Information

Greek Word: παρακαθέζομαι (parakathēzomai), pronounced [pah-rah-kah-THEH-zoh-my]

Etymology: The term derives from the combination of παρά (para), indicating proximity, and καθίζω (kathizō), meaning “to sit.” This indicates an action of sitting beside or closely.

Part of Speech: Verb. παρακαθέζομαι is a middle/passive verb in Greek, reflecting an action that is performed on oneself, indicating an active choice to sit beside someone.

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

Defining Meanings

To Sit Beside: The primary meaning of παρακαθέζομαι is the act of sitting next to or beside someone, often conveying a sense of companionship or attentiveness.

To Associate Closely: A secondary meaning includes the implication of forming a close relationship or association with another person, particularly in a learning or mentoring context.

To Be Attentive: In certain contexts, it can also suggest a posture of listening or being attentive, as in a disciple learning from a teacher.

Exploring Similar Words

καθίζω (kathizō) [kah-THEE-zoh]: This verb means “to sit” and is more general, without the connotation of closeness that παρακαθέζομαι carries.

συναντάω (synantáō) [soo-nahn-TAH-oh]: Meaning “to meet” or “to encounter,” this word emphasizes the act of coming together, rather than the specific act of sitting beside.

παρίσταμαι (parístamai) [pah-REE-stah-my]: This verb means “to stand beside” or “to appear,” which conveys a sense of presence but lacks the element of sitting or closeness inherent in παρακαθέζομαι.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: παρακαθέζομαι is a middle voice verb, which indicates that the subject participates in the action. The primary forms are in the present tense and indicative mood.

Person and Number: It can be conjugated in different persons (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and numbers (singular, plural). For example, in the present tense:

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

• 2nd person singular: παρακαθέζῃ (you sit beside)

• 3rd person singular: παρακαθέζεται (he/she/it sits beside)

Aspect: The aspect of παρακαθέζομαι is typically imperfective, focusing on the ongoing nature of the action, emphasizing the relational context rather than completion.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Insights from primary Greek lexicons highlight the nuanced meanings of παρακαθέζομαι in various contexts. BDAG focuses on its usage in both physical and relational settings, emphasizing its significance in discipleship. Thayer’s discusses its role in depicting intimate relationships, particularly in learning environments. LSJ highlights its presence in classical literature, noting how it has been used to illustrate physical proximity and attentiveness. Vine’s elaborates on its application in New Testament settings, linking it to the act of sitting at the feet of a teacher. Strong’s emphasizes its relevance in the teachings of Jesus, while LEH and Moulton and Milligan provide insights into its usage across different contexts, reinforcing its relational implications.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

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

2. Acts 22:3: “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet (παρακαθέζομαι) of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers.”

3. Matthew 5:1: “Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down (παρακαθέζομαι), his disciples came to him.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, παρακαθέζομαι is often used to signify physical proximity and attentiveness in various contexts.

Plato, The Republic: “When philosophers sit beside (παρακαθέζομαι) each other, they draw from one another’s knowledge to attain wisdom.”

Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “The importance of sitting beside (παρακαθέζομαι) those who share virtue cannot be overstated for the cultivation of moral character.”

Xenophon, Memorabilia: “Socrates often encouraged his followers to sit beside (παρακαθέζομαι) him, fostering a learning environment through dialogue.”

In the Septuagint, the concept of sitting beside is frequently used to illustrate relationships and learning.

Septuagint Example 1: Proverbs 13:20: “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm; those who sit (παρακαθέζομαι) with the wise will learn from them.”

Septuagint Example 2: Psalm 119:63: “I am a companion of all who fear you, of those who keep your precepts; they sit (παρακαθέζομαι) together in their reverence.”

Septuagint Example 3: Ecclesiastes 4:11: “Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? Those who sit (παρακαθέζομαι) together find comfort in each other.”

Noteworthy Summary

The verb παρακαθέζομαι emphasizes the importance of relational closeness, particularly in contexts of learning and discipleship. Its usage throughout the New Testament and classical literature illustrates its significance in demonstrating the act of sitting beside others, thereby fostering intimacy, trust, and the exchange of knowledge. Understanding this term allows for a deeper appreciation of the relational dynamics present in biblical narratives.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, the act of sitting beside a teacher was not merely physical; it symbolized a commitment to learning and growth.

In the context of the New Testament, sitting at Jesus’ feet signified discipleship, where followers sought to absorb his teachings directly.

The use of παρακαθέζομαι in various texts underscores the importance of community and mentorship in both religious and philosophical traditions.

Strong’s G3873: παρακαθέζομαι (parakathēzomai) means “to sit beside,” emphasizing relational proximity and the act of learning from those in authority or wisdom.

Part of Speech: Verb

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, language, vocabulary, discipleship, mentorship, learning, teaching, relational dynamics.