Brief Overview of παραχειμάζω (Strong’s G3914: paracheimazō)

Strong’s G3914: A compound verb combining παρα (through) with χειμάζω (to winter), meaning “to spend the winter, to winter.” Used in maritime contexts in Acts and Paul’s letters regarding ships harboring during winter months. Reflects ancient Mediterranean sailing practices and travel planning.

U- Unveiling the Word

παραχειμάζω specifically describes the practice of spending winter in a particular location, especially in maritime contexts. The word appears in accounts of Paul’s journeys, reflecting the common ancient practice of suspending sea travel during dangerous winter months. The compound structure emphasizes passing through the winter season. Early church writers used this term both literally for travel accounts and metaphorically for spiritual perseverance through difficult seasons. Today, it reminds us of the importance of wise planning and seasonal rhythms in both practical and spiritual life.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: παραχειμάζω, paracheimazō, /par-ah-khay-MAD-zo/
• Detailed pronunciation: par (as in ‘par’) + ah + khay (as in ‘kay’) + MAD (stressed) + zo
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• παρα- (para-): through, beside
• χειμάζω (cheimazō): to winter
• -ζω (-zō): verb ending

D – Defining Meanings

• To spend the winter
• To winter over
• To remain through winter

For compound words:
παρα- indicates duration through a period, while χειμάζω provides the specific context of winter, creating the concept of weathering through winter

Translation Options:

• “To winter” – concise and accurate to meaning
• “To spend the winter” – more explicit duration
• “To harbor for winter” – captures maritime context

E – Exploring Similar Words

• χειμάζω (cheimazō) /khay-MAD-zo/ – to winter, without the emphasis on duration
• διαχειμάζω (diacheimazō) /dee-ah-khay-MAD-zo/ – to winter through, similar meaning
• καταχειμάζω (katacheimazō) /kat-ah-khay-MAD-zo/ – to winter down, implying settling

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, παραχειμάζω exhibits:

• Tense: Present, Future, Infinitive
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative, Infinitive
• Person: 1st, 3rd
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Progressive

Examples:
παραχειμάζω (I winter)
παραχειμάσω (I will winter)
παραχειμάσαι (to winter)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its technical nautical usage. Thayer’s notes its common use in travel contexts. LSJ documents extensive classical usage in maritime settings. Vine’s highlights its practical significance in ancient travel. Moulton and Milligan cite numerous papyri examples of travel planning.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“And because the harbor was not suitable to [παραχειμάζω] spend the winter in, the majority decided to put out to sea from there” (Acts 27:12)

Additional References:
Acts 28:11, 1 Corinthians 16:6, Titus 3:12

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

παραχειμάζω represents a specific technical term for winter accommodation, particularly in maritime contexts, reflecting the practical realities of ancient Mediterranean travel and the necessity of proper planning.

D – Did You Know?

• The term appears in crucial sections of Acts describing Paul’s journey to Rome
• Ancient Mediterranean shipping typically ceased from November to March
• The word influenced early Christian understanding of strategic ministry planning

[Lexicon Summary]
A compound verb combining παρα (through) with χειμάζω (to winter), meaning “to spend the winter, to winter.” Used in maritime contexts in Acts and Paul’s letters regarding ships harboring during winter months. Reflects ancient Mediterranean sailing practices and travel planning.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #verb #acts #paul #travel #winter #maritime #compound_word #biblical_greek #new_testament #navigation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​