from παρά and καλέω; to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation):--beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort(-ation), intreat, pray.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parakaléō**, represented by `{{G3870}}`, is a versatile term derived from παρά and καλέω, meaning **to call near**. It appears 114 times across 104 unique verses. Its application is broad, encompassing actions of imploration, hortation, and consolation, and is translated as beseech, exhort, comfort, intreat, desire, and pray.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3870}}` is used to convey a range of crucial communications. Apostles frequently use it to make urgent appeals to believers, as when Paul **beseeches** the Romans to present their bodies as a living sacrifice [[Romans 12:1]] and **beseeches** the Corinthians to have no divisions among them [[1 Corinthians 1:10]]. It also expresses divine solace, with Jesus promising that those who mourn "shall be **comforted**" [[Matthew 5:4]]. Furthermore, it signifies the act of encouraging and strengthening fellow Christians, such as **exhorting** them to continue in the faith [[Acts 14:22]] and to assemble together [[Hebrews 10:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the dimensions of calling upon, encouraging, or pleading:
* `{{G3874}}` **paráklēsis** (comfort, consolation, exhortation, intreaty): This is the noun form directly related to `{{G3870}}`, representing the substance of the exhortation or comfort being given. Paul notes that one who **exhorteth** `{{G3870}}` should focus on **exhortation** `{{G3874}}` [[Romans 12:8]].
* `{{G1189}}` **déomai** (to beg, petition, make request): This term highlights the pleading or petitionary aspect. It is used alongside `{{G3870}}` to emphasize the nature of the appeal, as when the apostles **beseech** `{{G3870}}` on God's behalf and then **pray** `{{G1189}}` for reconciliation [[2 Corinthians 5:20]].
* `{{G3560}}` **nouthetéō** (to admonish, warn): While `{{G3870}}` often involves encouragement, `{{G3560}}` carries the specific sense of a gentle warning or reproof. The two are listed as distinct but related pastoral duties when Paul instructs believers to **warn** the unruly and **exhort** the brethren [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]].
* `{{G2675}}` **katartízō** (to complete thoroughly, repair, adjust): This word often describes the intended result of exhortation. Believers are **besought** `{{G3870}}` to be **perfectly joined together** `{{G2675}}` in the same mind [[1 Corinthians 1:10]], and are commanded to "Be perfect" `{{G2675}}` in the same breath as being told to "be of good comfort" `{{G3870}}` [[2 Corinthians 13:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3870}}` is demonstrated through its consistent use in foundational Christian practices.
* **Urgent Apostolic Appeal:** The word forms the basis of many apostolic instructions. Paul uses it not merely to suggest, but to earnestly plead with believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling [[Ephesians 4:1]] and to follow his example [[1 Corinthians 4:16]].
* **The Ministry of Comfort:** A central theme is that God **comforteth** `{{G3870}}` believers in their tribulation, equipping them to then **comfort** `{{G3870}}` others with the same comfort they received [[2 Corinthians 1:4]]. This divine comfort is a promised blessing and a tangible experience of God's presence ([[Luke 16:25]], [[2 Corinthians 7:6]]).
* **Mutual Edification:** Believers have a responsibility to **exhort** `{{G3870}}` one another daily [[Hebrews 3:13]], **comfort** `{{G3870}}` each other with the truth [[1 Thessalonians 4:18]], and stir each other up to **earnestly contend** for the faith [[Jude 1:3]]. This action is a vital component of church life, often linked directly with teaching and edifying ([[1 Timothy 6:2]], [[1 Thessalonians 5:11]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3870}}` is a dynamic word that captures the heart of pastoral care, brotherly love, and fervent prayer. It moves from a desperate plea for help [[Mark 1:40]] to a tender expression of divine consolation [[Matthew 5:4]] and a firm charge for righteous living [[Titus 2:15]]. It illustrates the cyclical nature of grace, where receiving comfort from God empowers believers to call upon, exhort, and comfort one another.
TRV