### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paraitéomai**, represented by `{{G3868}}`, means to beg off, deprecate, decline, shun, avoid, excuse, intreat, refuse, or reject. It appears **11 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. The word conveys the idea of actively pushing something away, whether it be an invitation, a false teaching, or a divine command.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3868}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It appears in Luke's gospel when guests **make excuse** to avoid attending a great supper, citing worldly obligations [[Luke 14:18]]. In a more serious context, the pastoral epistles command believers to **refuse** profane fables [[1 Timothy 4:7]], **avoid** foolish questions that lead to conflict [[2 Timothy 2:23]], and **reject** a divisive person after a first and second admonition [[Titus 3:10]]. The book of Hebrews uses it with ultimate gravity, warning the reader not to **refuse** God who speaks from heaven, reminding them of the Israelites who **intreated** that God's voice speak no more to them at Sinai ([[Hebrews 12:25]], [[Hebrews 12:19]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and implications of choosing to refuse or avoid something:
* `{{G1080}}` **gennáō** (to procreate, beget, be born): This word is linked to `{{G3868}}` in a warning to **avoid** foolish questions, because they **gender** or give birth to strifes [[2 Timothy 2:23]].
* `{{G1128}}` **gymnázō** (to train, exercise): In contrast to refusing profane ideas, believers are told to **exercise** themselves toward godliness, showing a positive discipline that replaces a negative one [[1 Timothy 4:7]].
* `{{G3559}}` **nouthesía** (admonition, mild rebuke or warning): The act of rejecting a person is directly tied to this word, as it is only to occur after a first and second **admonition** has been given and ignored [[Titus 3:10]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3868}}` carries significant theological weight, highlighting critical moments of decision.
* **Excuses and Priorities:** The word demonstrates how worldly concerns can be used to **make excuse** and refuse a divine invitation, revealing a person's true priorities ([[Luke 14:18]], [[Luke 14:19]]).
* **Doctrinal Discernment:** Believers are actively called to **refuse** and **avoid** teachings and behaviors that are ungodly, such as profane fables, foolish questions, and even younger widows who may wax wanton against Christ ([[1 Timothy 4:7]], [[2 Timothy 2:23]], [[1 Timothy 5:11]]).
* **The Gravity of Rejection:** The most serious use of the word warns against **refusing** the voice of God. To do so is a far greater offense than when the Israelites refused Him on earth, and it carries the consequence of not escaping judgment [[Hebrews 12:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3868}}` is a powerful verb that signifies a deliberate choice to decline, shun, or reject. It spans from making social excuses to the profoundly serious act of turning away from God's revelation. The word serves as a reminder that what a person chooses to avoid or refuse is a critical indicator of their spiritual state and ultimate allegiance.
TRV