### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parakatathḗkē**, represented by `{{G3872}}`, defines **a deposit or sacred trust**. Derived from words meaning "to put down alongside," it appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying something of great value that has been committed to another for safekeeping.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3872}}` denotes a precious, divinely-entrusted teaching or truth that must be protected. In [[1 Timothy 6:20]], Timothy is urged to **keep** that which is committed to his trust, a command directly linked to **avoiding** `{{G1624}}` **profane** `{{G952}}` and **vain babblings** `{{G2757}}` and the **oppositions** `{{G477}}` of false **knowledge** `{{G1108}}`. Similarly, [[2 Timothy 1:14]] refers to "that **good thing** `{{G2570}}` which was committed unto thee," specifying that it should be kept by the power of the Holy Ghost.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of this sacred trust:
* `{{G5442}}` **phylássō** (to watch): This word for "keep" or "be on guard" is used in both instances of `{{G3872}}`, highlighting the active and vigilant protection required for the deposit ([[1 Timothy 6:20]], [[2 Timothy 1:14]]).
* `{{G2570}}` **kalós** (good): This describes the deposit as something valuable, virtuous, and good, emphasizing its divine quality [[2 Timothy 1:14]].
* `{{G1624}}` **ektrépō** (to deflect): This term, meaning to "turn away," shows the action required to shield the trust from corrupting influences [[1 Timothy 6:20]].
* `{{G2757}}` **kenophōnía** (vain): Meaning "empty sounding" or "fruitless discussion," this identifies one of the primary threats to the sacred trust [[1 Timothy 6:20]].
* `{{G952}}` **bébēlos** (profane): This describes things that are heathenish or wicked, which must be shunned to guard the deposit [[1 Timothy 6:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3872}}` centers on the believer's responsibility to preserve the truth.
* **A Divine Deposit:** The trust is not of human origin. It is a **good thing** `{{G2570}}` committed to the believer and kept through the Holy Ghost, signifying its precious and divine nature [[2 Timothy 1:14]].
* **Active Guardianship:** The command to **keep** `{{G5442}}` the deposit underscores a non-negotiable, active duty. It is a call to be on guard and preserve what has been entrusted.
* **Protection from Falsehood:** Guarding the trust is explicitly tied to rejecting specific spiritual dangers, namely **profane** `{{G952}}` talk and so-called **knowledge** `{{G1108}}` that stands in **opposition** `{{G477}}` to the truth [[1 Timothy 6:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3872}}` **parakatathḗkē** is a concise and powerful term for the sacred trust of the Gospel. It is not merely information to be known, but a precious deposit to be actively guarded `{{G5442}}` and defended. Its use in scripture highlights the immense value of the truth and the solemn responsibility of every believer to preserve it intact against corrupting influences.
TRV