### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parákeimai**, represented by `{{G3873}}`, means to lie near or be at hand. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Figuratively, it conveys the idea of something being prompt, easy, or immediately **present**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both uses of `{{G3873}}` are found in the book of Romans and describe a deep internal conflict. It is stated that the **will** `{{G2309}}` to do what is right is readily **present** with the speaker [[Romans 7:18]]. However, this is immediately contrasted with the discovery of a principle or "law" `{{G3551}}`: when the desire is to do **good** `{{G2570}}`, **evil** `{{G2556}}` is also **present** [[Romans 7:21]]. The word emphasizes the nearness and accessibility of these conflicting forces within a person.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the internal struggle described in the context of `{{G3873}}`:
* `{{G2309}}` **thélō**: This word means "to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse)... i.e. choose or prefer." It describes the will that is **present** with the speaker, even when the ability to perform the good deed is not found [[Romans 7:18]].
* `{{G2556}}` **kakós**: Defined as "worthless (intrinsically, such...)... depraved, or... injurious," this is the **evil** that is found to be **present** when one would do good [[Romans 7:21]].
* `{{G2570}}` **kalós**: Meaning "beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good... valuable or virtuous," this is the **good** that the speaker desires to do but struggles to perform [[Romans 7:18]].
* `{{G2147}}` **heurískō**: This word means "to find (literally or figuratively)." It frames the personal discovery of the internal conflict, as the speaker **finds** this principle at work within himself [[Romans 7:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3873}}` is focused on the nature of the human condition and spiritual warfare.
* **The Immediacy of Inner Conflict:** `{{G3873}}` shows that the human will is not isolated. The desire to **will** `{{G2309}}` good is constantly accompanied by the nearness of **evil** `{{G2556}}`, making the struggle an immediate reality [[Romans 7:21]].
* **The State of the Flesh:** The word is used in a context that specifies this struggle is located within the **flesh** `{{G4561}}`, where no **good thing** `{{G18}}` dwells. What is **present** in the flesh is therefore a source of conflict with the inner will [[Romans 7:18]].
* **A Revealed Principle:** The use of `{{G3873}}` helps articulate a spiritual "law" `{{G3551}}`. This principle is that evil is not a distant enemy but is "at hand" or **present** precisely when the intent is to do good [[Romans 7:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3873}}` does more than denote simple proximity; it describes an intimate and immediate accessibility. In its specific biblical context, it powerfully illustrates the internal war between the regenerated will that desires good and the persistent presence of evil in the flesh. The term is crucial for understanding that this spiritual conflict is not an abstract concept but a personal, ever-present reality for the believer.
TRV