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.
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.
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.
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.
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