### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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}}`.
### Summary
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