The Greek word parádoxos, represented by G3861, means contrary to expectation, i.e. extraordinary ("paradox"):--strange. This term is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse. Its singular use marks a moment of profound, divinely-caused astonishment.
The sole appearance of G3861 is in Luke's Gospel, where a crowd witnesses a miraculous event. Their reaction is a mixture of amazement, fear, and worship. They were all amazed, glorified God, and were filled with fear, collectively declaring, "We have seen strange things to day" Luke 5:26. The use of parádoxos here encapsulates an event so far beyond normal experience that it could only be understood as a direct manifestation of God's power.
Several related words from its single context in Luke 5:26 illuminate the impact of encountering the extraordinary:
- G1492 eídō (to see): This word, meaning properly, to see, and by implication, to know, is what the people claim to have done. They "have seen" the strange things, pointing to an undeniable, firsthand experience that forms the basis of their reaction Luke 5:26.
- G1611 ékstasis (amazement): Defined as "a displacement of the mind, i.e. bewilderment," this term describes the initial shock of the crowd. It signifies an overwhelming astonishment that disrupts normal thought, a common reaction to divine works (Mark 5:42, Acts 3:10).
- G1392 doxázō (glorify): The response to the "strange things" culminates in glorifying God. This word means to render or esteem glorious and is the proper spiritual outcome when humanity witnesses divine power, as people are called to glorify God for his works Matthew 5:16.
The theological weight of G3861 is tied directly to its singular, powerful context. It demonstrates how God uses the unexpected to reveal himself.
- Provokes Worship: The sight of strange things does not lead to mere confusion, but directly to the glorification of G2316 God. Witnessing the impossible turns the human heart toward acknowledging a higher power Luke 5:26.
- Elicits Holy Fear: The event filled the crowd with G5401 fear, an alarm or fright that is distinct from simple terror. This reverential awe is an appropriate response to the presence of God's power and is foundational to a life of holiness 2 Corinthians 7:1.
- Confirms Divine Action: The declaration "We have seen" Luke 5:26 acts as a powerful testimony. The experience of the parádoxos provides tangible evidence that moves people from observation to proclamation, solidifying faith through a direct encounter with the works of God.
In summary, parádoxos G3861 is a concise and potent term whose importance is defined by its single use. It describes an event so extraordinary that it defies natural explanation. Its appearance in Luke 5:26 marks a pivotal moment where a miracle shattered expectations, causing the witnesses to be overcome with amazement, filled with reverential fear, and ultimately compelled to glorify God for the "strange things" they had seen.
TRV