G3879:

Brief Overview of παρακύπτω (Strong’s G3879: parakypō)

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb παρακύπτω (parakypō) means “to stoop down” or “to bend over.” It conveys the action of leaning or inclining one’s body forward, typically to look closely at something or to gain a better view. This term holds significance in biblical contexts, where it often reflects a physical posture of inquiry, attention, or care. In Luke 24:12, for example, it illustrates Peter’s action of bending down to investigate the empty tomb of Jesus, emphasizing both physical movement and a desire for understanding. The imagery of stooping carries deeper metaphorical implications, suggesting humility, attentiveness, and a seeking attitude.

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Necessary Information

Greek Word: παρακύπτω, transliterated as parakypō, pronounced [pah-rah-KYPO].

Etymology: The word is formed from the prefix παρά (para), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and the verb κύπτω (kyptō), meaning “to bend” or “to bow down.” This etymology highlights the action of bending down beside something.

Part of Speech: Verb. παρακύπτω is an active voice verb in the present tense, indicating an ongoing action.

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

Defining Meanings

To Bend Over: The primary meaning of παρακύπτω is to physically lean or stoop down, often to observe something more closely.

To Look Closely: A secondary meaning emphasizes the aspect of closely examining or inspecting an object or scene, indicating an active engagement in understanding or witnessing.

To Incline Oneself: This can also imply a posture of humility or submission, as bending down can symbolize a willingness to learn or seek knowledge.

Exploring Similar Words

κύπτω (kyptō) [KYPO]: This verb means “to bend” or “to bow down,” but lacks the nuance of leaning beside something or the specific posture of inquiry that παρακύπτω suggests.

παρακολουθέω (parakoloutheō) [pah-rah-koh-loo-THEH-oh]: Meaning “to follow closely,” this word emphasizes attentive following rather than the physical act of bending down to observe.

κλίνω (klinō) [KLEE-no]: This term means “to incline” or “to lean,” but it does not carry the same intimate connotation of looking closely as παρακύπτω does.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: παρακύπτω is in the present tense, active voice, and indicative mood, indicating ongoing action performed by the subject.

Person and Number: In the 1st person singular, it appears as παρακύπτω (parakypō), while in the 3rd person plural, it is παρακύπτουσι (parakypousi).

Aspect: The aspect is imperfective, signifying that the action of bending down is ongoing rather than completed, reflecting a continuous engagement in the act of observation.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicons provide diverse insights into the term παρακύπτω. BDAG highlights its physical implications in both secular and biblical texts, noting its use in contexts where one must lean in to see something better. Thayer’s Lexicon expands on its metaphorical use, linking it to themes of humility and attentiveness in the pursuit of knowledge. LSJ provides classical examples that show its usage in literature, emphasizing physical posture. Vine’s Expository Dictionary connects this verb to biblical themes of seeking and understanding, while Strong’s Concordance provides straightforward definitions. LEH and Moulton and Milligan offer historical contexts that showcase its importance in understanding biblical narratives.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 24:12: “But Peter arose and ran to the tomb; and stooping down (παρακύπτω), he saw the linen cloths lying by themselves; and he departed, marveling to himself at what had happened.”

2. Matthew 18:17: “And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.”

3. John 20:5: “And he, stooping down (παρακύπτω) and looking in, saw the linen cloths lying there; yet he did not go in.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, παρακύπτω is often used to describe the action of bending to observe or examine closely.

Plato, The Republic: “The philosopher must παρακύπτω into the shadows of ignorance to uncover the truth.”

Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “One should παρακύπτω into the essence of virtue to grasp its nature.”

Herodotus, Histories: “The wise traveler will παρακύπτω to understand the customs of the land.”

In the Septuagint, similar themes of inquiry and attentiveness appear:

Septuagint Example 1: Proverbs 2:4: “If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.”

Septuagint Example 2: Isaiah 6:10: “Make the heart of this people dull, and their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and turn and be healed.”

Septuagint Example 3: Psalm 119:18: “Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law.”

Noteworthy Summary

The term παρακύπτω embodies the act of bending down to observe closely, symbolizing a posture of inquiry and humility. This verb invites believers to engage actively with the truth and teachings of scripture.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, the act of bending down was often associated with respect and attentiveness, indicating a willingness to learn.

In the New Testament, παρακύπτω is particularly significant during the resurrection narrative, highlighting the disciples’ journey from confusion to understanding.

This verb encapsulates the essence of spiritual seeking, as it requires believers to be physically and mentally present in their quest for truth.

Strong’s G3879: παρακύπτω (parakypō) means “to stoop down” or “to lean over,” indicating an active engagement in observing and understanding the truths of faith.

Part of Speech: Verb

Tags: Greek, New Testament, theology, discipleship, language studies.