### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paranoméō**, represented by `{{G3891}}`, means to be opposed to the law or to transgress. Formed from a compound of the words παρά and νόμος, its very structure signifies an action contrary to an established rule. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, which makes its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3891}}` is in [[Acts 23:3]], during a tense confrontation between the Apostle Paul and the high priest. Paul, on trial, rebukes his judge, saying, "sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten **contrary to the law**?" In this context, the word captures the hypocrisy of a legal authority who, while supposedly upholding the law `{{G3551}}`, issues a command `{{G2753}}` that directly violates it. The action is an abuse of power and a perversion of the very justice the judge is meant to serve.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Acts 23:3]] help clarify the meaning of `{{G3891}}`:
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This is the foundational word from which **paranoméō** is derived. It refers to a law, regulation, or principle, such as the law of Moses or the law of Christ [[Galatians 6:2]]. It is the standard that is being transgressed.
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (to judge): This word means to decide, try, or condemn. The official in [[Acts 23:3]] is there to **judge** Paul according to the law, but his actions undermine this role. God is also shown as the ultimate one who will **judge** [[Hebrews 13:4]].
* `{{G2753}}` **keleúō** (to command): Meaning to order or incite by word, this is the action verb that triggers Paul's accusation. The judge **commanded** Paul to be struck, an order that was contrary to legal procedure. This word is often used for authoritative orders, such as when magistrates **commanded** a beating [[Acts 16:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3891}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Perversion of Justice:** The word specifically defines an act of injustice committed by someone in a position of authority. It is not just breaking a rule, but doing so while claiming to enforce it, as seen in the judge's actions [[Acts 23:3]].
* **Hypocrisy in Leadership:** Paul’s use of the term is a direct accusation of hypocrisy. It highlights the principle that leaders and judges are not above the law they administer but are, in fact, held to a higher standard of adherence.
* **Conflict between Human Command and Divine Law:** The scene in [[Acts 23:3]] creates a clear conflict between an arbitrary human command `{{G2753}}` and the established, rightful **law** `{{G3551}}`. The use of **paranoméō** condemns the command as illegitimate.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3891}}` is a precise and impactful term for legal transgression. Although it appears only once, its context in [[Acts 23:3]] provides a definitive example of what it means to act "contrary to the law." It illustrates a moment of profound injustice, where a corrupt authority abuses his power, setting a human command in direct opposition to the very law he is sworn to uphold.
TRV