### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parabátēs**, represented by `{{G3848}}`, defines **a violator**, often translated as a **breaker** or **transgressor**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically refers to one who violates a known commandment or law, effectively overstepping a clear boundary.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3848}}` consistently relates to the violation of God's law. James uses the term to argue for the unity of the law, stating that if a person does not **commit adultery** `{{G3431}}` but does **kill** `{{G5407}}`, they have still "become a **transgressor** of the law" [[James 2:11]]. The word is also applied to those who show partiality, who are convicted by the law as **transgressors** [[James 2:9]]. In Romans, Paul contrasts outward observance with inner reality, explaining that if someone is a **breaker** of the law, their circumcision is made **uncircumcision** `{{G203}}` [[Romans 2:25]]. Paul also uses it personally, saying if he were to rebuild the system of law he **destroyed** `{{G2647}}`, he would make himself a **transgressor** [[Galatians 2:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the meaning of a transgressor:
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This is the standard against which transgression is measured. Being a **transgressor** is defined by one's failure to keep the **law** [[Romans 2:27]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): To be a transgressor is to **commit** `{{G2038}}` **sin** `{{G266}}`, as seen in the case of having respect to persons [[James 2:9]].
* `{{G2647}}` **katalýō** (to destroy): This word is used in contrast to building up a system that makes one a transgressor. Paul warns that rebuilding the things he had **destroyed** would make him a transgressor [[Galatians 2:18]].
* `{{G203}}` **akrobystía** (uncircumcision): This term highlights the futility of religious rites without obedience. For a **breaker** of the law, their circumcision is made **uncircumcision** [[Romans 2:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3848}}` is significant in understanding the nature of law and sin.
* **The Indivisible Law:** The term establishes that God's law functions as a whole. To break one commandment makes someone a **transgressor** of the entire law, as one who does not **commit adultery** `{{G3431}}` but does **kill** `{{G5407}}` is still guilty [[James 2:11]].
* **Obedience Over Ritual:** Being a **breaker** of the law invalidates outward signs of the covenant. A person's circumcision becomes meaningless if they transgress the **law** `{{G3551}}`, showing that God values obedience over ceremony [[Romans 2:25]].
* **The Rejection of Legalism:** The concept is used to argue against returning to salvation by law. Paul states that if he rebuilds the legal system he **destroyed** `{{G2647}}` through the gospel of grace, he would prove himself to be a **transgressor** [[Galatians 2:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3848}}` is a precise term for a violator of a known standard, specifically the **law** `{{G3551}}`. It is not a general term for a sinner, but for one who knowingly crosses a divine line. Its use in scripture clarifies that the law is a single entity, that true obedience is superior to external rites, and that reverting to legalism after embracing grace is itself a form of transgression.
TRV