The Greek word paramythéomai, represented by G3888, means to relate near, and by implication to encourage or console. It is often translated simply as comfort. This specific term appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the words pará and a derivative of mỹthos, its core meaning involves coming alongside someone to speak words of encouragement or solace.
In scripture, G3888 is used in two primary contexts. First, it describes the act of providing consolation to those who are grieving. In the gospel of John, many Jews came to Martha and Mary specifically "to comfort them concerning their brother" John 11:19. This action is shown again when those who were with Mary to comfort her followed her as she went to weep at the grave John 11:31. Second, it is used to describe a form of spiritual strengthening and encouragement. In his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul describes his ministry as that of a father who comforted his children, linking the word to exhortation and instruction 1 Thessalonians 2:11.
Several related words clarify the function of G3888 within Christian conduct:
- G3870 parakaléō (to call near, i.e. invite, invoke... comfort, desire, exhort): This word is used alongside G3888 to describe the apostolic duty to both exhort and comfort the believers 1 Thessalonians 2:11.
- G3642 oligópsychos (little-spirited, i.e. faint-hearted): This term identifies the specific recipients of comfort in the command to "comfort the feebleminded" 1 Thessalonians 5:14, indicating a focus on those who are discouraged or weak in spirit.
- G3560 nouthetéō (to put in mind, i.e. (by implication) to caution or reprove gently): Paired with comfort in a list of pastoral duties, this word for warn shows that encouragement is balanced with gentle correction 1 Thessalonians 5:14.
- G2799 klaíō (to sob, i.e. wail aloud): This word for weep establishes the context of deep sorrow in which the comfort of G3888 was offered to Mary John 11:31.
The application of G3888 carries significant weight, highlighting key aspects of fellowship and care.
- Active Consolation in Loss: The word denotes more than just sympathy; it is an action. The Jews in John's account came to the home of Martha and Mary and stayed with them to actively comfort them in their bereavement (John 11:19, John 11:31).
- Strengthening the Faint-Hearted: The command in 1 Thessalonians 5:14 to comfort the feebleminded G3642 frames this as a specific ministry to those who are discouraged or "little-spirited," distinct from other pastoral actions like warning the unruly or supporting the weak.
- Paternal Encouragement: Paul's use of G3888 in 1 Thessalonians 2:11 places comfort within a paternal framework. Just as a father builds up his children, spiritual leaders are to use comfort as a tool for nurturing believers, alongside exhorting G3870 and charging G3140.
In summary, paramythéomai G3888 is a focused term that encompasses more than a general feeling of solace. It is an intentional act of coming alongside another person, either to offer gentle words of consolation in times of deep grief, as seen in the story of Lazarus, or to provide targeted encouragement to strengthen the faint-hearted. It is a vital component of the personal, fatherly care that believers are called to show one another.
TRV