### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb παραβαίνω (parabaínō, `{{G3845}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition παρά (para), meaning "beside," "alongside," or "contrary to," and the verb βαίνω (baínō), meaning "to go" or "to step." Etymologically, it conveys the sense of "to go alongside and beyond," or "to step across a boundary." Its core meaning is to deviate from a prescribed path, rule, or standard. Semantically, it denotes the act of transgressing, violating, or disobeying a command, law, or established norm. It implies a deliberate overstepping of a known limit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
παραβαίνω appears in the New Testament with consistent meaning, primarily highlighting the act of violating a divine or human injunction.
In [[Matthew 15:2-3]], Jesus confronts the Pharisees concerning their disciples' actions: "Why do your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders?" He then turns the accusation back on them: "Why do you yourselves transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?" Here, παραβαίνω clearly denotes the act of breaking a rule, whether it be human tradition or divine commandment. The context emphasizes the hypocrisy of valuing human tradition over God's explicit commands.
Paul frequently employs this term, particularly in Romans, to discuss the Law and sin. In [[Romans 2:25]] and [[Romans 2:27]], he speaks of the Jewish person who, despite possessing the Law and circumcision, becomes a "transgressor of the law." This highlights the failure to live up to the standard of the Law, rendering outward religious markers meaningless. The act of παραβαίνω here underscores the personal responsibility for one's actions in relation to a known divine standard.
In [[Galatians 2:18]], Paul uses παραβαίνω in a theological argument regarding justification: "For if I rebuild what I tore down, I prove myself a transgressor." This refers to the idea of returning to the Law as a means of righteousness after having embraced freedom in Christ, thereby transgressing the new covenant of grace.
A unique usage is found in [[Acts 19:37]], where the town clerk states that Paul's companions "are neither temple robbers nor blasphemers of our goddess." While the ESV translates παραβαίνω as "robbers," the underlying sense is that they had not "transgressed" or violated the sanctity of the temple or the local deity.
Finally, in [[2 John 1:9]], the term takes on a doctrinal significance: "Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God." Here, παραβαίνω is translated as "goes on ahead" or "transgresses," referring to those who move beyond or deviate from the established apostolic teaching about Christ. This warns against theological error and false doctrine as a form of transgression.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of παραβαίνω is closely linked to other terms describing sin and law.
* παράβασις (parabasis, `{{G3847}}`): The noun form, meaning "transgression" or "the act of overstepping." This is the direct action noun derived from the verb.
* παραβάτης (parabatēs, `{{G3848}}`): The agent noun, meaning "transgressor," one who commits παράβασις.
* ἁμαρτία (hamartia, `{{G266}}`): The most general term for "sin," meaning "missing the mark." While παραβαίνω is a specific type of sin (breaking a known rule), ἁμαρτία encompasses all forms of moral failing.
* ἀνομία (anomia, `{{G458}}`): "Lawlessness" or "iniquity." This term emphasizes a state of being without law or in opposition to law. παραβαίνω is a specific act that demonstrates ἀνομία.
* ἐντολή (entolē, `{{G1785}}`): "Commandment." This is the specific directive or rule that is παραβαίνω-ed.
* νόμος (nomos, `{{G3551}}`): "Law." The broader system or body of rules against which one παραβαίνω-s.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of παραβαίνω is profound, particularly in Pauline theology. It underscores several critical truths:
1. **Existence of Divine Standard:** The very concept of transgression implies the existence of a divine law or command that can be violated. God has set boundaries and revealed His will.
2. **Deliberate Disobedience:** παραβαίνω suggests a conscious act of stepping over a known boundary, highlighting the volitional aspect of sin. It is not merely an unintentional error but a deliberate violation.
3. **Exposure of Sin by Law:** Paul uses παράβασις (the noun form) in [[Romans 5:14]] to describe Adam's sin, connecting it to the concept that "where there is no law, there is no transgression" ([[Romans 4:15]]). The Law's primary function, in one sense, was to make transgression evident, revealing the depth of human sinfulness.
4. **Accountability:** To παραβαίνω means to incur guilt and accountability before God. It necessitates a divine response, whether judgment or provision for atonement.
5. **Doctrinal Purity:** In [[2 John 1:9]], παραβαίνω extends beyond moral or ceremonial law to include doctrinal truth. Deviating from the teaching of Christ is presented as a serious transgression, indicating the importance of adhering to sound doctrine for fellowship with God.
### Summary
παραβαίνω (parabaínō, `{{G3845}}`) is a potent Greek verb signifying the act of "transgressing" or "violating" a command, law, or established boundary. Its etymology, "to go contrary to" or "to step across," perfectly captures its meaning of deliberate disobedience. In the New Testament, it is consistently used to describe the breaking of both divine commandments and human traditions, emphasizing the accountability of the one who steps over the line. Theologically, παραβαίνω highlights the existence of God's revealed will, the intentional nature of sin, and the Law's role in exposing humanity's failure to meet God's righteous standards. It also serves as a critical warning against deviation from sound Christian doctrine, underscoring the comprehensive nature of divine truth and the seriousness of violating it.
TRV