G3870:

Brief Overview of παρακαλέω (Strong’s G3870: parakaleō)

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb παρακαλέω (parakaleō) translates to “to call alongside,” “to urge,” or “to comfort.” It encompasses a wide range of meanings that include exhortation, encouragement, and consolation, making it a multifaceted term used throughout the New Testament. In Matthew 2:18, it is utilized in a context of mourning, underscoring its significance in the emotional and spiritual landscape of biblical narratives. The term is rooted in the prefix παρά (para), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and καλέω (kaléō), which means “to call.” This combination suggests not just a call to action but a relational approach, where the speaker seeks to offer support, advice, or comfort to someone in need.

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Necessary Information

Greek Word: παρακαλέω (parakaleō), pronounced [pah-rah-kah-LEH-oh]

Etymology: The word is formed from the prefix παρά (para) and the verb καλέω (kaléō). The prefix indicates a sense of nearness or closeness, while the verb implies an action of calling or summoning.

Part of Speech: Verb. παρακαλέω is a regular verb, conjugating in accordance with standard Greek verb patterns.

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

Defining Meanings

To call alongside: The primary meaning of παρακαλέω signifies inviting someone to come alongside for help, counsel, or support.

To urge: It also conveys the idea of urging or exhorting someone to take action, often in a moral or spiritual context.

To comfort: Additionally, the term can mean to comfort someone in distress, providing emotional and spiritual support.

Exploring Similar Words

παραινέω (parainéō) [pah-rah-ee-NEH-oh]: This verb means “to exhort” or “to advise.” While it shares a common theme of urging, it does not carry the same connotation of comfort or consolation that παρακαλέω does.

συμβουλεύω (symbouléō) [seem-boo-LEH-oh]: Meaning “to counsel,” this term emphasizes providing advice and guidance, differing from the relational aspect of comfort inherent in παρακαλέω.

ἐνθαρρύνω (entharrhynō) [en-thah-RYNOH]: This word translates to “to encourage” and carries a strong emphasis on instilling courage, aligning with the supportive aspect of παρακαλέω but focusing more on motivation than comfort.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: παρακαλέω typically appears in the present tense, indicative mood, and active voice.

Person and Number: Examples of conjugation include:

• 1st person singular: παρακαλῶ (I call alongside)

• 2nd person singular: παρακαλεῖς (You call alongside)

• 3rd person singular: παρακαλεῖ (He/She/It calls alongside)

Aspect: The verb conveys an imperfective aspect, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the action of calling or encouraging rather than a single, completed event.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Various Greek lexicons provide insight into παρακαλέω. BDAG emphasizes its usage in both comforting and exhorting contexts within the New Testament, suggesting its importance in early Christian communities. Thayer’s elaborates on its emotional connotations, noting that the term is often used to express deep concern and compassion. LSJ highlights its presence in classical literature, where it reflects social interactions and the importance of community support. Vine’s connects it to themes of spiritual encouragement, illustrating how the term embodies the relational dynamics present in teaching and mentorship. Strong’s notes its significance in various contexts, particularly in discussing God’s invitation to humanity. LEH and Moulton and Milligan provide additional context, showing how the term’s usage reflects societal values regarding care and support.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 2:18: “A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused (παρακαλέω) to be comforted, because they are no more.”

John 14:16: “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper (παρακαλέω), to be with you forever.”

Romans 12:8: “The one who exhorts (παρακαλέω), in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, παρακαλέω often reflects the importance of support and relational dynamics in community settings.

Plato, Republic: “In discussing the virtues, Socrates would often call alongside (παρακαλέω) his companions to engage in deeper dialogue.”

Aristotle, Ethics: “The wise man does not only know how to act but also knows how to encourage others (παρακαλέω) in their pursuit of virtue.”

Xenophon, Memorabilia: “Socrates would frequently urge (παρακαλέω) his disciples to reflect on their actions and motivations.”

In the Septuagint, the concept of comfort and encouragement can be observed.

Septuagint Example 1: Isaiah 40:1: “Comfort (παρακαλέω), comfort my people, says your God.”

Septuagint Example 2: Psalm 119:76: “Let your steadfast love comfort (παρακαλέω) me according to your promise to your servant.”

Septuagint Example 3: Jeremiah 31:13: “I will turn their mourning into joy; I will comfort (παρακαλέω) them, and give them gladness for sorrow.”

Noteworthy Summary

The verb παρακαλέω is essential for understanding the dynamics of encouragement, comfort, and relational support in both biblical and classical contexts. Its significance in exhorting and comforting individuals emphasizes the importance of community and interpersonal relationships. This term enriches the discussions surrounding discipleship, communal relationships, and the nature of learning and comfort within spiritual communities.

Did You Know?

In biblical contexts, the act of comforting (παρακαλέω) is often seen as a crucial aspect of ministry and community life.

The use of this term highlights the relational nature of teaching and encouragement, emphasizing that faith is often nurtured through support from others.

Understanding παρακαλέω enhances our comprehension of the relational dynamics present in biblical narratives, particularly in discussions of grief, teaching, and communal support.

Strong’s G3870: παρακαλέω (parakaleō) means “to call alongside,” “to urge,” or “to comfort,” reflecting the importance of supportive relationships in both personal and communal contexts.

Part of Speech: Verb

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, theology, language, vocabulary, word study, encouragement, comfort, relational dynamics