### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb παρακαθίζω (parakathízō, `{{G3869}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition παρά (pará, `{{G3844}}`), meaning "beside, near, alongside," and the verb καθίζω (kathízō, `{{G2523}}`), meaning "to sit" or "to cause to sit." The core meaning, therefore, is "to sit down near" or "to sit beside." This compound emphasizes not merely the act of sitting, but the *proximity* and *positioning* relative to another person or object. The semantic range is quite narrow, focusing primarily on this literal act of taking a seat in close proximity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Παρακαθίζω appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* **Luke 10:39**: "And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to His word."
In this singular occurrence, the verb describes Mary's posture relative to Jesus. The phrase "sat at Jesus' feet" (παρακαθίζω παρὰ τοὺς πόδας τοῦ Ἰησοῦ) powerfully conveys a posture of discipleship and attentive learning. It signifies more than casual sitting; it indicates a deliberate positioning to receive instruction. In the ancient world, sitting at the feet of a rabbi or teacher was the customary posture for a student or disciple, demonstrating humility, reverence, and a readiness to absorb wisdom. Mary's choice to παρακαθίζω contrasts sharply with her sister Martha's preoccupation with serving, highlighting a prioritization of spiritual nourishment over worldly tasks. The verb underscores her intentional proximity and receptivity to Jesus' teaching.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the base verb καθίζω (kathízō, `{{G2523}}`), meaning "to sit" or "to set down." The addition of the prefix παρά (pará, `{{G3844}}`) specifies the manner of sitting, adding the crucial nuance of "nearness" or "beside." Other related concepts include:
* **Discipleship:** The act of sitting at the teacher's feet is a quintessential image of a disciple.
* **Attentive Listening:** The purpose of sitting in this manner is to listen intently and learn.
* **Devotion and Priority:** Mary's παρακαθίζω demonstrates her devotion to Jesus and her prioritization of His word above other concerns.
* **Receptivity:** Her posture signifies an open and receptive heart, ready to receive spiritual truth.
This verb, though unique in its New Testament occurrence, paints a vivid picture of a specific kind of spiritual posture that is foundational to Christian life.
### Theological Significance
Despite its solitary appearance, παρακαθίζω carries profound theological significance, primarily through its context in Luke 10:39. Mary's act of sitting at Jesus' feet serves as an enduring model of discipleship.
1. **Prioritizing the Word:** Mary's choice to παρακαθίζω illustrates the supreme importance of listening to and receiving God's word. In a world often distracted by many concerns, this verb calls believers to a posture of intentional focus on Christ and His teachings.
2. **Intimacy and Proximity:** The "nearness" implied by παρακαθίζω speaks to the intimacy of relationship with Jesus. It is not merely passive listening from a distance, but an active drawing near to the source of life and truth. This proximity fosters a deeper understanding and personal connection.
3. **The "Good Portion":** Jesus' commendation of Mary's choice ("Mary has chosen the good portion") elevates this posture of attentive listening and spiritual receptivity above even necessary acts of service. It suggests that the "one thing needful" is to be present with Christ, absorbing His wisdom.
4. **Humility and Submission:** Sitting at the feet of a teacher signifies humility and submission to their authority. It is a posture of readiness to learn and be taught, acknowledging one's need for divine instruction.
Thus, παρακαθίζω encapsulates a core aspect of Christian spirituality: a humble, intimate, and attentive posture before Christ, prioritizing His word above all else.
### Summary
The Greek verb παρακαθίζω (parakathízō, `{{G3869}}`) literally means "to sit down near" or "to sit beside," emphasizing proximity and intentional positioning. Its single occurrence in the New Testament, found in [[Luke 10:39]], is profoundly significant. It describes Mary's act of "sitting at Jesus' feet" to listen to His word, contrasting her posture with Martha's busy service. This verb powerfully illustrates a model of discipleship characterized by humble attentiveness, intimate proximity to Christ, and the prioritization of His teachings. It underscores the theological truth that the "good portion" for believers is to draw near to Jesus and receive His word with a receptive heart, a posture that transcends mere physical presence to encompass deep spiritual devotion and learning.
TRV