Brief Overview of παρατηρέω (Strong’s G3906: paratēreō)

Strong’s G3906: A compound verb combining παρα (beside) with τηρέω (to watch/observe), meaning “to watch closely, observe carefully, or scrutinize.” In the New Testament, often used negatively to describe malicious observation of Jesus by his opponents, though also appears in neutral contexts of observation.

U- Unveiling the Word

παρατηρέω carries the sense of intense, purposeful observation. In the New Testament, it frequently appears in contexts where Jesus’s opponents watch Him closely for opportunities to accuse Him, particularly regarding Sabbath observance. The compound structure emphasizes close, persistent watching. Early church writers used this term to discuss both negative surveillance by opponents and positive watchfulness in spiritual matters. Today, it serves as a reminder of both the scrutiny believers may face and the importance of careful spiritual observation.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: παρατηρέω, paratēreō, /par-ah-tay-REH-oh/
• Detailed pronunciation: par (as in ‘par’) + ah + tay + REH (stressed) + oh
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• παρα- (para-): beside, close by
• τηρέω (tēreō): to watch, guard, observe
• -ω (-ō): verb ending

D – Defining Meanings

• To watch closely
• To observe carefully
• To scrutinize with hostile intent

For compound words:
παρα- intensifies the basic meaning of τηρέω, creating the sense of careful, close observation, often with negative connotations

Translation Options:

• “To watch closely” – emphasizes careful observation
• “To scrutinize” – captures the intensity of observation
• “To keep under observation” – emphasizes ongoing nature

E – Exploring Similar Words

• σκοπέω (skopeō) /sko-PEH-oh/ – to look at, consider, but less intensive
• ἐπιτηρέω (epitēreō) /ep-ee-tay-REH-oh/ – to watch for with emphasis on purpose
• βλέπω (blepō) /BLEH-po/ – to see or look, more general observation

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, παρατηρέω exhibits:

• Tense: Present, Imperfect
• Voice: Active, Middle
• Mood: Indicative, Participle
• Person: 3rd
• Number: Plural/Singular
• Aspect: Continuous

Examples:
παρατηρῶ (I observe)
παρατηρεῖ (he/she/it observes)
παρετήρουν (they were observing)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use for hostile observation in the Gospels. Thayer’s notes both positive and negative contexts of careful watching. LSJ documents classical usage for astronomical observation. Vine’s highlights its frequent hostile connotations. Moulton and Milligan note its use in medical contexts for observing symptoms.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“And they [παρατηρέω] watched Jesus, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him” (Mark 3:2)

Additional References:
Mark 6:7, Luke 6:7, Luke 14:1, Luke 20:20, Acts 9:24, Galatians 4:10

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

παρατηρέω predominantly describes intentional, careful observation, often with hostile intent in New Testament usage. Its applications range from malicious surveillance to medical observation, emphasizing close attention to detail.

D – Did You Know?

• The word is used exclusively for hostile observation in Mark’s Gospel
• It appears in medical writings for diagnostic observation
• The term became important in early Christian discussions of Sabbath observance

[Lexicon Summary]
A compound verb combining παρα (beside) with τηρέω (to watch/observe), meaning “to watch closely, observe carefully, or scrutinize.” In the New Testament, often used negatively to describe malicious observation of Jesus by his opponents, though also appears in neutral contexts of observation.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #verb #observation #surveillance #gospels #sabbath #opposition #compound_word #biblical_greek #new_testament #persecution​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​