### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paramýthion**, represented by `{{G3890}}`, refers to a concrete form of consolation or **comfort**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in scripture, which highlights its specific and focused meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3890}}` is in [[Philippians 2:1]], where it is presented as the "**comfort** of love." The verse uses a series of conditional phrases to build a powerful argument based on the shared spiritual realities among believers. The word is situated among other profound concepts, including "consolation in Christ" and "fellowship of the Spirit." Its direct connection to love suggests that this **comfort** is an active expression of affection and benevolence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in [[Philippians 2:1]] illuminate the meaning of `{{G3890}}`:
* `{{G3874}}` **paráklēsis** (consolation): Used just before **paramýthion**, it refers to solace or exhortation. Its placement suggests a close relationship between the general **consolation** found in Christ and the specific **comfort** that flows from love [[Philippians 2:1]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love): This word specifies the source of the **comfort** `{{G3890}}`. It describes an active affection and benevolence, showing that this comfort is a tangible expression of God's love [[Philippians 2:1]].
* `{{G2842}}` **koinōnía** (fellowship): This term for partnership or participation is used to describe the **fellowship** of the Spirit, another of the foundational realities listed in the verse [[Philippians 2:1]].
* `{{G4698}}` **splánchnon** (bowels): Used figuratively for pity or sympathy, this word is paired with mercies to describe the deep, internal feelings of compassion that are part of the Christian experience [[Philippians 2:1]].
* `{{G5547}}` **Christós** (Christ): The entire basis for this comfort and consolation is found **in Christ**, the anointed Messiah. To be "in Christ" is to be in the sphere where these blessings exist [[Philippians 2:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3890}}` comes from its unique context.
* **A Tangible Expression of Love:** Unlike a general feeling, `{{G3890}}` points to a concrete consolation. Its connection to **agápē** (love) shows that this **comfort** is a tangible reality flowing from divine affection [[Philippians 2:1]].
* **A Foundational Blessing:** The word appears in a list of spiritual truths ("If there be therefore...") that serve as the foundation for Christian conduct. The **comfort** of love is presented as a shared resource available to believers, enabling their fellowship and unity [[Philippians 2:1]].
* **Sourced in God:** The context links this **comfort** directly to the divine sphere, placing it alongside the "consolation **in Christ**" `{{G5547}}` and the "fellowship **of the Spirit**" `{{G4151}}`. It is an experience rooted in the believer's relationship with God [[Philippians 2:1]].
### Summary
In summary, **paramýthion** `{{G3890}}` provides a specific and rich understanding of **comfort**. Though used only once, its placement in [[Philippians 2:1]] is highly significant. It is not an abstract feeling but a concrete consolation that originates from **love** `{{G26}}` and is experienced within the fellowship of believers. It stands as a testament to the profound resources, including **consolation**, **fellowship**, and **mercy**, that are available to those who are in **Christ** `{{G5547}}`.
TRV