G3880:
Brief Overview of παραλαμβάνω (Strong’s G3880: paralambanō)
Unveiling the Word
The Greek verb παραλαμβάνω (paralambanō) translates to “to receive,” “to take alongside,” or “to accept.” It carries the connotation of taking something into one’s possession or being accompanied by someone. This term appears in various contexts in the New Testament, often highlighting the act of accepting a message, an instruction, or a person. In Matthew 1:20, the term illustrates the angel’s message to Joseph, emphasizing the acceptance of Mary as his wife and the child she will bear. The significance of this word is rooted in the interplay of faith, acceptance, and divine instruction, inviting believers to consider what they receive in their spiritual journey.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: παραλαμβάνω, transliterated as paralambanō, pronounced [pah-rah-lam-BAH-no].
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Etymology: The word is a compound of two parts: παρα (para), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and λαμβάνω (lambanō), meaning “to take” or “to receive.” This etymological composition highlights the relational aspect of receiving, suggesting not just a physical act, but a significant relational dynamic.
Part of Speech: Verb. παραλαμβάνω is a transitive verb in the active voice, indicating that the subject performs the action of receiving or taking.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
To Receive: The primary meaning of παραλαμβάνω is to take or receive something that is offered, indicating an acceptance of a gift, a message, or an instruction.
To Take Alongside: A secondary meaning emphasizes the notion of accompanying or taking someone along with oneself, as in the context of discipleship or partnership.
To Accept: This word can also imply a more passive acceptance, where one agrees or consents to a situation, often used in theological contexts to express accepting divine will.
Exploring Similar Words
λαμβάνω (lambanō) [lam-BAH-no]: This verb means “to take” or “to receive” without the added implication of taking alongside someone or something, focusing more on the action of receiving itself.
παραδίδωμι (paradidōmi) [pah-rah-DID-oh-mee]: This term translates to “to deliver” or “to hand over,” which differs from παραλαμβάνω as it often involves transferring ownership rather than merely receiving.
αἱρέω (hairō) [hai-REH-oh]: Meaning “to take” or “to choose,” this word implies a selection process, differing from παραλαμβάνω, which emphasizes reception rather than selection.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
For Verbs:
Tense, Voice, Mood: παραλαμβάνω is primarily used in the present tense and can also appear in the aorist tense. It is in the active voice, indicating that the subject performs the action.
Person and Number: In the 1st person singular, it is παραλαμβάνω (paralambanō); in the 2nd person singular, it is παραλαμβάνεις (paralambaneis); and in the 3rd person singular, it is παραλαμβάνει (paralambanei).
Aspect: The aspect is imperfective, which signifies ongoing action, emphasizing a continuous process of receiving or accepting.
Studying Lexicon Insights
Various Greek lexicons provide insights into παραλαμβάνω, particularly its use in scriptural contexts. BDAG highlights its relational dynamic, noting how the term often encompasses a deeper acceptance beyond mere physical receiving. Thayer’s Lexicon discusses its usage in the New Testament, emphasizing how it relates to the believer’s relationship with Christ and divine revelations. LSJ provides historical context for its use in classical texts, while Vine’s Expository Dictionary connects it to themes of discipleship and following Jesus. Strong’s Concordance offers basic definitions while LEH and Moulton and Milligan provide examples of the term’s use across different literature, underlining its theological significance.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
1. Matthew 1:20: “But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you (παραλαμβάνω) Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.’”
2. Mark 9:37: “Whoever receives (παραλαμβάνω) one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me.”
3. Luke 9:36: “When the voice had ceased, Jesus was found alone. But they kept quiet, and told no one in those days any of the things they had seen.”
Analyzing Classical Usage
In classical Greek literature, παραλαμβάνω is used in various contexts to describe the act of receiving or taking.
Plato, The Republic: “For the philosopher should παραλαμβάνω (take) knowledge and truth from those who possess it.”
Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “We must παραλαμβάνω (receive) the wisdom of the ancients to guide our moral judgments.”
Herodotus, Histories: “The king’s messengers would παραλαμβάνω (take) news from the lands they traveled to inform the court.”
In the Septuagint, similar themes of receiving knowledge or divine instruction appear:
Septuagint Example 1: Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Septuagint Example 2: Proverbs 4:7: “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.”
Septuagint Example 3: Deuteronomy 4:5: “Surely I have taught you statutes and judgments, just as the Lord my God commanded me, that you should act according to them in the land which you go to possess.”
Noteworthy Summary
The verb παραλαμβάνω encompasses the act of receiving or accepting, often in a relational context that invites believers to consider the implications of what they accept in their spiritual journey. Its usage in scripture emphasizes the importance of taking on divine truths and responsibilities, highlighting a dynamic relationship between the believer and the divine.
Did You Know?
In the ancient world, receiving something was often a formal act, indicating respect and acknowledgment of authority, especially in relationships involving mentorship and teaching.
The New Testament frequently employs παραλαμβάνω in contexts that emphasize accepting the teachings and guidance of Jesus, inviting believers to engage with the message.
This word embodies a crucial aspect of discipleship, as it represents not just passive acceptance, but an active participation in the journey of faith.
Strong’s G3880: παραλαμβάνω (paralambanō) means “to receive” or “to take alongside,” indicating an active acceptance of messages, people, or divine truths.
Part of Speech: Verb
Tags: Greek, New Testament, theology, discipleship, language studies.
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