### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paráklēsis**, represented by `{{G3874}}`, is a foundational term for **imploration, hortation, and solace**. It appears **29 times** across **28 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is multifaceted, encompassing the distinct but related concepts of **comfort, consolation, exhortation, and intreaty**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3874}}` is used in several key contexts. It is presented as a divine **comfort** that flows from God, who is called "the God of all **comfort**" [[2 Corinthians 1:3]], to sustain believers through **tribulation** `{{G2347}}` [[2 Corinthians 1:4]]. The term also denotes a strong **exhortation** or appeal, as when believers are instructed to give attendance to reading, to **exhortation** `{{G3874}}`, and to **doctrine** `{{G1319}}` [[1 Timothy 4:13]]. It is the awaited deliverance of God's people, as Simeon waited for the "**consolation** of Israel" [[Luke 2:25]], and it is the result of receiving God's word with joy [[Acts 15:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of **paráklēsis**:
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (to call near, i.e. invite, invoke... beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort(-ation), intreat, pray): As the verb from which `{{G3874}}` is derived, this word signifies the action of giving comfort or making an appeal. The two are directly linked in the description of spiritual gifts: "he that exhorteth `{{G3870}}`, on **exhortation** `{{G3874}}`" [[Romans 12:8]].
* `{{G5281}}` **hypomonḗ** (cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy): **Consolation** is closely associated with endurance. Scripture provides **comfort** `{{G3874}}` so that believers, through **patience** `{{G5281}}`, might have hope [[Romans 15:4]].
* `{{G1680}}` **elpís** (expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence): The **comfort** given by God is a source of **hope**. Believers are given "everlasting **consolation** `{{G3874}}` and good **hope** `{{G1680}}`" through grace [[2 Thessalonians 2:16]].
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (pressure (literally or figuratively):--afflicted(-tion), anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble): **Comfort** is often presented as the divine answer to **tribulation**. Paul speaks of being "filled with **comfort** `{{G3874}}`" and "exceeding joyful in all our **tribulation** `{{G2347}}`" [[2 Corinthians 7:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3874}}` is significant, highlighting God's direct engagement with His people.
* **Divine Source:** The ultimate origin of all true **comfort** is God Himself. He is named "the Father of mercies, and the God of all **comfort**" [[2 Corinthians 1:3]] and "the God of patience and **consolation**" [[Romans 15:5]]. This **consolation** is also provided through Christ [[Philippians 2:1]] and the Holy Ghost [[Acts 9:31]].
* **Purpose in Suffering:** Believers receive **consolation** not only for their own relief but also to equip them to comfort others [[2 Corinthians 1:4]]. The experience of suffering and the reception of God's **comfort** creates a steadfast **hope** [[2 Corinthians 1:7]].
* **Component of Edification:** As **exhortation**, `{{G3874}}` is a vital part of building up the church. Prophecy is for **edification** `{{G3619}}`, **exhortation** `{{G3874}}`, and **comfort** `{{G3889}}` [[1 Corinthians 14:3]]. It is a "word of **exhortation**" that strengthens the community ([[Acts 13:15]], [[Hebrews 13:22]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3874}}` is a dynamic word that represents both the gentle solace and the firm encouragement that comes from God. It is a gift that sustains believers through suffering, grounds their hope for the future, and equips them to edify and support one another. **Paráklēsis** illustrates the deep connection between God's comforting presence and His call to persevere in the faith.
TRV