from παρά and λαμβάνω; to receive near, i.e. associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy, to assume an office; figuratively, to learn:--receive, take (unto, with).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paralambánō**, represented by `{{G3880}}`, describes the act of taking or receiving something or someone to oneself. It appears **54 times** in **50 unique verses** of the Bible. Formed from the words `παρά` (near) and `λαμβάνω` (to take), its meaning encompasses intimate association, such as taking a person into one's company, as well as the figurative act of learning or receiving tradition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3880}}` is used in several distinct ways. It frequently refers to the act of receiving apostolic teaching or the gospel. Paul states he delivered to the Corinthians what he himself had **received** [[1 Corinthians 15:3]], and he exhorts believers to walk according to the instruction they **received** from the apostles [[1 Thessalonians 4:1]]. The term also denotes a physical and personal taking, as when an angel commands Joseph to **take** Mary as his wife [[Matthew 1:20]] or when Jesus **took** Peter, James, and John to the mountain of transfiguration [[Matthew 17:1]]. Furthermore, it carries eschatological weight, as in Christ's promise to **receive** believers to Himself [[John 14:3]] and in parables where one person is **taken** and another is left [[Matthew 24:40]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the specific meaning of `{{G3880}}`:
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō** (to take (in very many applications, literally and figuratively (properly objective or active, to get hold of...))): As the root of **paralambánō**, this word signifies the general act of taking or getting hold of something. In the account of the Last Supper, Paul states he **received** `{{G3880}}` the teaching from the Lord that Jesus **took** `{{G2983}}` bread [[1 Corinthians 11:23]].
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi** (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit): This word often works in tandem with **paralambánō** to describe the transmission of tradition. Paul **delivered** `{{G3860}}` the gospel message that he had previously **received** `{{G3880}}` [[1 Corinthians 15:3]].
* `{{G1209}}` **déchomai** (to receive (in various applications, literally or figuratively)): This term is often contrasted with **lambánō**, implying a more passive reception of something offered. The Thessalonians **received** `{{G3880}}` the word from Paul, and in turn, they **received** `{{G1209}}` it not as the word of men but of God [[1 Thessalonians 2:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G3880}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of the Christian faith.
* **Transmission of Revelation:** The word is crucial for understanding how divine truth is passed on. Paul emphasizes that the gospel he preached was **received** either directly by revelation from Jesus Christ [[Galatians 1:12]] or through established tradition, which he then **delivered** `{{G3860}}` to the church [[1 Corinthians 15:3]].
* **Intimate Association with Christ:** **paralambánō** illustrates the personal relationship Christ has with His followers. He **took** His inner circle of disciples with Him to witness key events [[Mark 14:33]] and promises to one day come and **receive** all believers to be with Him where He is [[John 14:3]].
* **Eschatological Separation:** The word is used to describe the final separation of the righteous from the unrighteous. In the end times, one will be **taken** and the other left, signifying a divine selection and gathering [[Luke 17:34-35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3880}}` is more than a simple term for "taking." It denotes a close, personal association, whether it is Jesus taking His disciples, Joseph taking his wife, or believers receiving sacred tradition. It forms a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, defining the process of receiving divine truth and the ultimate hope of being **received** by Christ into glory. The word bridges the conceptual and the physical, linking the acceptance of truth with the act of being brought into fellowship with God.
TRV