### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word paramýthion (`{{G3890}}`) is a neuter noun derived from paramythia (`{{G3889}}`). While paramythia broadly denotes "consolation," "comfort," or "exhortation," paramýthion specifically emphasizes the *means* or *instrument* by which comfort is given, or the concrete *act* of providing solace. It signifies a tangible source of relief, encouragement, or alleviation of distress. Its semantic range includes comfort, consolation, and solace, often implying an active intervention that brings relief to someone in a state of grief, fear, or anxiety. It is not merely a passive feeling but a perceptible expression of care and support.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word paramýthion (`{{G3890}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's letter to Philemon:
* **[[Philemon 1:7]]**: "For I have great joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother."
* In this verse, Paul expresses profound gratitude and personal solace derived from Philemon's demonstrable love and service to other believers. The "comfort" (`{{G3890}}`) Paul receives is not an abstract concept but a direct consequence of Philemon's hospitality and spiritual refreshment provided to the saints. Philemon's actions, born of love, serve as the concrete "means" or "instrument" of comfort to Paul. This highlights the relational and practical nature of Christian comfort, where the genuine acts of love within the community bring tangible solace to others.
### Related Words & Concepts
Paramýthion (`{{G3890}}`) belongs to a significant family of Greek words related to comfort and encouragement:
* **paramythia (`{{G3889}}`)**: The root noun, meaning "consolation" or "exhortation." It is used more broadly to refer to the act or state of comforting, often in divine contexts (e.g., [[Luke 2:25]], [[Romans 15:4]]).
* **parakaleo (`{{G3870}}`)**: The verb meaning "to call alongside," "to comfort," "to exhort," "to encourage." This is a foundational verb for the concept of comfort in the New Testament, encompassing both divine and human action.
* **paraklesis (`{{G3874}}`)**: The noun form of parakaleo, meaning "exhortation," "encouragement," "comfort," or "consolation." This word is frequently used to describe the Holy Spirit as the "Comforter" or "Advocate" (e.g., [[John 14:16]], [[John 14:26]]). It often refers to a strengthening or urging towards right action, alongside the alleviation of distress.
These related terms collectively underscore the multifaceted nature of comfort in the biblical worldview, encompassing divine solace, mutual encouragement among believers, and exhortation for perseverance in faith.
### Theological Significance
While paramýthion (`{{G3890}}`) itself appears only once, its theological significance is amplified by its connection to the broader biblical concept of comfort.
* **Mutual Comfort within the Community:** The use in [[Philemon 1:7]] powerfully illustrates the theological truth that believers are called to be instruments of comfort to one another. Philemon's love and service provided concrete solace to Paul, demonstrating that Christian love is not merely an emotion but an active force that brings tangible encouragement and relief. This mutual comfort strengthens the bonds of fellowship and reflects the practical outworking of the Holy Spirit within the body of Christ.
* **Reflection of Divine Comfort:** Although paramýthion does not directly refer to God's comfort in its sole occurrence, the larger semantic field of paraklesis and paramythia frequently points to God as "the God of all comfort" ([[2 Corinthians 1:3]]). Thus, human acts of comfort, like Philemon's, are seen as a reflection of God's own comforting presence and work through His people.
* **Empowerment for Perseverance:** Biblical comfort is not merely about feeling better; it is often about being strengthened to endure trials, persevere in faith, and continue in ministry. While not explicit in [[Philemon 1:7]], the comfort Paul received undoubtedly fortified him in his apostolic labors.
### Summary
Paramýthion (`{{G3890}}`) signifies "comfort" or "consolation," specifically denoting the concrete *means* or *act* by which solace is provided. Its singular occurrence in [[Philemon 1:7]] highlights the tangible nature of Christian love, where Philemon's actions brought genuine "comfort" to the Apostle Paul. This word is part of a rich semantic field that includes paramythia (`{{G3889}}`), parakaleo (`{{G3870}}`), and paraklesis (`{{G3874}}`), all of which emphasize the multifaceted nature of comfort within the Christian experience. Theologically, paramýthion underscores the vital role of believers in actively providing comfort to one another, reflecting God's own comforting character and empowering the community for perseverance and service.
TRV