from a compound of παρά and ἀλλάσσω; transmutation (of phase or orbit), i.e. (figuratively) fickleness:--variableness.
Transliteration:parallagḗ
Pronunciation:par-al-lag-ay'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun παραλλαγή (parallagḗ, `{{G3883}}`) is derived from the preposition παρά (para), meaning "beside" or "alongside," and the verb ἀλλάσσω (allassō, `{{G236}}`), meaning "to change" or "to alter." Etymologically, it conveys the idea of a change that occurs *alongside* something or a *deviation* from a standard. Its primary literal meaning, particularly in ancient astronomy, referred to a "transmutation of phase or orbit," such as the apparent shift in the position of a celestial body when viewed from different angles (parallax) or the changing phases of the moon. This astronomical sense emphasizes a perceptible alteration or variability. Figuratively, παραλλαγή extends to denote "fickleness," "instability," "inconsistency," or "variableness." It describes a state of being subject to alteration or a lack of steadfastness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term παραλλαγή (parallagḗ, `{{G3883}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Epistle of James:
* [[James 1:17]]: "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variableness or shadow of turning."
In this pivotal verse, James contrasts the unchanging nature of God with the inherent changeability of the created order. The phrase "no variableness or shadow of turning" (οὐκ ἔνι παραλλαγὴ ἢ τροπῆς ἀποσκίασμα) is a powerful theological statement. The term παραλλαγή here signifies a lack of any kind of alteration or deviation in God's character, will, or actions. It rules out any form of caprice, inconsistency, or internal change within the Divine Being. The accompanying phrase, "shadow of turning" (τροπῆς ἀποσκίασμα, using τροπή `{{G5157}}` for "turning" or "revolution"), likely alludes to the shifting shadows cast by celestial bodies (like the sun or moon) as they move through their orbits, indicating change and impermanence in the created cosmos. By negating both παραλλαγή and τροπῆς ἀποσκίασμα concerning God, James emphatically declares God's absolute immutability and constancy, distinguishing Him from all created phenomena.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related terms and concepts illuminate the meaning of παραλλαγή (parallagḗ, `{{G3883}}`):
* ἀλλάσσω (allassō, `{{G236}}`): The root verb meaning "to change" or "to alter." Its negation or absence is precisely what παραλλαγή describes in relation to God.
* τροπή (tropē, `{{G5157}}`): Meaning "a turning" or "revolution," often used in conjunction with παραλλαγή in [[James 1:17]]. It reinforces the idea of motion and consequent change, particularly in astronomical contexts.
* ἀμετάθετος (ametathētos, `{{G276}}`): Meaning "immutable" or "unchangeable." This adjective is used in [[Hebrews 6:18]] to describe the unchangeable character of God's purpose and oath, reinforcing the concept of divine immutability that παραλλαγή also conveys.
* The broader theological concept of divine immutability, which asserts that God is eternally unchangeable in His being, attributes, purposes, and promises. This stands in contrast to the mutable nature of creation and humanity.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of παραλλαγή (parallagḗ, `{{G3883}}`) in [[James 1:17]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a cornerstone for understanding the unchangeable nature of God, a doctrine known as divine immutability. The assertion that God is "without variableness" means:
1. **Constancy of Character:** God's attributes—His love, justice, holiness, faithfulness, and mercy—are not subject to fluctuation or alteration. He is eternally who He is.
2. **Reliability of Promises:** Because God is without παραλλαγή, His promises are absolutely trustworthy. He does not change His mind or go back on His word. This provides an unwavering foundation for faith and hope.
3. **Stability in Salvation:** The believer's salvation rests on the unchangeable character of God. His grace is not fickle, nor is His commitment to His covenant people subject to whim.
4. **Contrast with Creation:** The created world, including human beings, is characterized by change, decay, and inconsistency. God, as the Creator, stands eternally apart from this mutability. He is the fixed point in a shifting cosmos.
This immutability ensures that "every good gift and every perfect gift" that comes from Him is truly good and perfect, emanating from an eternally benevolent and consistent source.
### Summary
The Greek term παραλλαγή (parallagḗ, `{{G3883}}`), rooted in concepts of astronomical shifts and deviations, figuratively signifies "variableness," "fickleness," or "inconsistency." Its sole, yet profoundly significant, appearance in the New Testament is in [[James 1:17]], where it is used to describe the nature of God. In this context, παραλλαγή emphatically negates any form of change or instability in the "Father of lights," contrasting His immutable character with the changing "shadow of turning" found in the created order. Theologically, this word underscores the absolute constancy, reliability, and unchanging faithfulness of God, providing a firm foundation for trust in His character, promises, and the perfect gifts He bestows.
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