### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paráptōma**, represented by `{{G3900}}`, denotes a **side-slip** or **deviation**. It appears 23 times across 20 unique verses in the Bible. The term can describe an (unintentional) **error** or a (wilful) **transgression**, and is often translated as **fall**, **fault**, **offence**, **sin**, or **trespass**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3900}}` is used to illustrate the spiritual state of humanity and the solution found in Christ. It describes people as being **dead** in **trespasses** ([[Ephesians 2:1]], [[Ephesians 2:5]], [[Colossians 2:13]]). The concept is central to the doctrine of forgiveness, where believers are instructed to **forgive** men their **trespasses** to be forgiven by their heavenly Father [[Matthew 6:14]]. This theme of forgiveness is directly linked to Christ's redemptive work, through whom we have redemption and the **forgiveness** of **sins** [[Ephesians 1:7]]. Christ was delivered for our **offences** [[Romans 4:25]], and through him, God is not **imputing** their **trespasses** to the world [[2 Corinthians 5:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of `{{G3900}}`:
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): This word is often used in parallel with **paráptōma** to describe the human condition, such as being "dead in trespasses{G3900} and{G2532} sins{G266}" [[Ephesians 2:1]].
* `{{G863}}` **aphíēmi** (forgive): This term is crucial to understanding the response to a **trespass**. It is used repeatedly to command believers to **forgive** the **trespasses** of others ([[Matthew 6:14]], [[Matthew 6:15]]).
* `{{G1347}}` **dikaíōsis** (justification): This concept stands in direct contrast to the condemnation brought by an **offence**. Christ was raised for our **justification**, the remedy for our **offences** [[Romans 4:25]].
* `{{G2675}}` **katartízō** (restore): This word shows the proper community response when a person is "overtaken{G4301} in{G1722} a{G5100} fault{G3900}," which is to **restore** them in a spirit of meekness [[Galatians 6:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3900}}` is significant, framing key aspects of salvation.
* **Human Fallenness:** The word establishes the condition of humanity as being spiritually **dead** because of **trespasses** and sins, separated from the life of God ([[Ephesians 2:1]], [[Colossians 2:13]]).
* **Federal Headship and Condemnation:** A single **offence** by one man resulted in death reigning and judgment coming upon all men to **condemnation** ([[Romans 5:17]], [[Romans 5:18]]).
* **Christ's Atoning Work:** The forgiveness of **trespasses** is a central part of Christ's work. He was delivered for our **offences** [[Romans 4:25]], and God offers **reconciliation** by not counting people's **trespasses** against them [[2 Corinthians 5:19]]. His **righteousness** provides **justification** as the free gift that answers the problem of the **offence** [[Romans 5:18]].
* **Conditional Forgiveness:** The teachings of Jesus link our forgiveness from God directly to our willingness to **forgive** the **trespasses** of others ([[Matthew 6:14-15]], [[Mark 11:25]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3900}}` represents more than a simple mistake; it is a critical theological term describing a transgression or deviation that leads to spiritual death and condemnation. It is used to contrast the fallen state of humanity with the life-giving justification available through Christ. The word underscores the gravity of sin, the necessity of Christ's sacrifice, and the believer's responsibility to extend forgiveness and restore those who fall into a **fault**.
TRV