### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parakoḗ**, represented by `{{G3876}}`, means **inattention** which by implication leads to **disobedience**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term’s root suggests a failure to hear or a refusal to listen, which results in an act of disobedience against a given command or authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3876}}` is used to explain foundational spiritual truths. It is most notably used to describe the consequences of one man’s **disobedience**, which resulted in many being made sinners [[Romans 5:19]]. This single act stands in direct contrast to the obedience of one that leads to righteousness. The word is also used alongside transgression to emphasize that every act of **disobedience** against God’s word received a just penalty [[Hebrews 2:2]]. Furthermore, it is used to describe a condition within the church that must be corrected, with the apostles being ready to address all **disobedience** once the believers' obedience is complete [[2 Corinthians 10:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of disobedience and its opposite, obedience:
* `{{G5218}}` **hypakoḗ** (attentive hearkening, i.e. (by implication) compliance or submission:--obedience, (make) obedient, obey(-ing)): This word serves as the direct antonym to `{{G3876}}`. It is contrasted with disobedience to show the two opposing paths: one leading to sin and the other to righteousness [[Romans 5:19]].
* `{{G3847}}` **parábasis** (violation:--breaking, transgression): Often paired with disobedience, this term refers to the specific act of violating a known law. Scripture states that every **transgression** and disobedience received a just reward [[Hebrews 2:2]].
* `{{G268}}` **hamartōlós** (sinful, i.e. a sinner:--sinful, sinner): This describes the state that results from disobedience. It is through one man's disobedience that many were made **sinners** [[Romans 5:19]].
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively):--just, meet, right(-eous)): This is the state that results from obedience, the opposite of disobedience. Through the obedience of one, many are made **righteous** [[Romans 5:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3876}}` is significant, establishing key doctrines of sin and righteousness.
* **The Origin of Sin:** The term is central to the explanation of how sin entered the human condition. Through the **disobedience** of one man, many were constituted as sinners, establishing a principle of federal headship [[Romans 5:19]].
* **Divine Accountability:** The concept of **disobedience** is directly tied to divine judgment. The word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and act of **disobedience** was met with a just punishment, reinforcing the gravity of ignoring God's commands [[Hebrews 2:2]].
* **The Contrast with Christ's Obedience:** Disobedience is the backdrop against which the work of Christ is displayed. The catastrophic result of one man's **disobedience** is overcome by the redeeming result of one man's obedience [[Romans 5:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3876}}` is not merely a term for misbehavior but a foundational theological concept. It defines the root of humanity's sinful state as a failure to listen to God, stemming from the **disobedience** of one man. It underscores the principle that all disobedience has consequences and stands in stark contrast to the life-giving obedience of Christ, which makes many righteous. The word illustrates how inattention to divine instruction leads to a state of sin and separation.
TRV