G3813

Unveiling the Word

The Greek term παιδιόν (paidíon) translates to “little child” or “young child.” It is a diminutive form of the word παῖς (pais), which generally means “child” or “boy.” The use of this term in scripture often emphasizes innocence, youthfulness, and the early stages of life, making it particularly significant in contexts that discuss upbringing, education, and faith. In the New Testament, the term is used in passages that highlight the value of children and their place in the kingdom of God, illustrating a deep theological perspective on the significance of a child’s heart and faith.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: παιδιόν, pronounced [pai-DI-on].

Etymology: The word derives from the root παῖς (pais), meaning “child.” The diminutive suffix -όν (-ón) indicates a smaller or younger version, thus conveying a sense of endearment or tenderness toward children.

Part of Speech: παιδιόν is a noun and is classified as neuter gender in Greek. It can refer to a very young child or infant, emphasizing the tenderness and innocence associated with early childhood.

Defining Meanings

Young Child: The primary meaning of παιδιόν is “little child,” signifying a very young person, typically a toddler or infant.

Innocent Being: It also connotes innocence and purity, traits often associated with young children, making it relevant in discussions of moral and ethical teachings.

Discipleship Context: In some contexts, it reflects the relationship between teachers and their young pupils, highlighting the importance of nurturing faith and moral values from a young age.

Exploring Similar Words

παῖς (pais) [pais]: This term means “child” or “boy” and is broader than παιδιόν. While παῖς encompasses children of various ages, παιδιόν specifically refers to very young children.

παιδεία (paideía) [pai-dei-AH]: This noun refers to education or training. While παιδιόν highlights the child itself, παιδεία focuses on the educational and developmental processes that shape a child.

παιδευτής (paideutēs) [pai-deu-TES]: This word means “educator” or “teacher.” It differs from παιδιόν by emphasizing the role of the individual imparting knowledge and guidance to children rather than the children themselves.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

• Case, Number, Gender: παιδιόν is in the nominative case, singular number, and neuter gender.

• Declension: It belongs to the second declension class, which typically includes nouns ending in -ον in the nominative singular.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In Greek lexicons, παιδιόν is often interpreted within the broader context of childhood, innocence, and vulnerability. Its significance in the New Testament underscores the notion that the kingdom of God belongs to such as these, highlighting the value placed on children in Christian teachings. Theological discussions often emphasize the childlike faith and humility that adults should emulate, making this word pivotal in understanding Christian doctrine regarding humility and purity.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 2:8: “And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, ‘Go and search diligently for the child [παιδιόν], and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.’”

Mark 10:14: “But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the children [παιδιά] come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.’”

Luke 18:17: “Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child [παιδίον] shall not enter it.’”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Example 1: Plato, The Republic: “Education should begin from early childhood [παιδιόν], as this is when the foundation of character is laid.”

Example 2: Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “Virtue is acquired from the beginning of childhood [παιδιόν] through habit and practice.”

Example 3: Xenophon, Memorabilia: “Socrates taught that proper upbringing [παιδιόν] is crucial for developing good citizens.”

Septuagint Example 1: Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child [παιδίον] in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Septuagint Example 2: Deuteronomy 6:7: “You shall teach them diligently to your children [παιδίον].”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 28:9: “To whom will he teach knowledge? And to whom will he explain the message? Those weaned from the milk, those taken from the breast [παιδίον].”

Noteworthy Summary

The word παιδιόν underscores the importance of children in spiritual and ethical contexts, emphasizing their innocence and the significant role they play in shaping the future of society and faith.

Did You Know?

1. παιδιόν highlights the ancient Greek belief that early childhood experiences significantly impact future character and behavior.

2. In the context of the New Testament, παιδιόν signifies not just a physical child but also embodies the qualities of humility and openness that are encouraged in believers.

3. The usage of παιδιόν in scripture often serves as a reminder for adults to maintain a childlike faith and trust in God.

Strong’s G3813: παιδιόν (paidíon) refers to a “little child” or “young child,” emphasizing innocence and the importance of early influences on character and faith development.