### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paratḗrēsis**, represented by `{{G3907}}`, refers to **inspection** or **ocular evidence**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its specific context crucial to its meaning. The term implies a close, scrutinizing watch, the kind of tangible, empirical **observation** one would use to track an event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G3907}}` is found in a direct response from Jesus to the Pharisees. When they **demanded** of him when the kingdom of God would come, he answered them, "The kingdom of God cometh not with **observation**" [[Luke 17:20]]. This statement directly contrasts the expectation of a visible, worldly kingdom with the spiritual nature of God's reign, which cannot be tracked by sight.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context illuminate the meaning:
* `{{G1905}}` **eperōtáō** (to ask for, i.e. inquire, seek): This describes the action of the Pharisees, who were not merely asking but demanding a sign. Similarly, the disciples **asked** when the kingdom would be restored [[Acts 1:6]].
* `{{G5330}}` **Pharisaîos** (a separatist, i.e. exclusively religious): This identifies the group questioning Jesus. Their focus on external righteousness is consistent with their desire for an externally observable kingdom, a focus Jesus rebuked [[Matthew 23:13]].
* `{{G932}}` **basileía** (royalty, i.e. (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm): This is the subject of the inquiry. Jesus taught that this **kingdom** was something to be sought rather than simply watched for [[Matthew 6:33]].
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): The word describes the arrival the Pharisees hoped to witness. Jesus uses this same word to describe his own purpose, which was not a public spectacle but to **come** and save the lost [[Luke 19:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3907}}` is significant despite its single use, as it clarifies the nature of God's kingdom.
* **A Non-Empirical Kingdom:** By stating the kingdom does "not" `{{G3756}}` come with **observation**, Jesus teaches that its arrival cannot be measured or confirmed by human sight or the signs the Pharisees desired [[Matthew 16:1]].
* **Spiritual Reality:** The term's usage forces a distinction between a physical **realm** `{{G932}}` and a spiritual one. The kingdom is not an event to be passively observed but a state that must be entered into through spiritual rebirth [[John 3:5]].
* **Contrasting Expectations:** The Pharisees' demand `{{G1905}}` for a visible event highlights their misunderstanding. Jesus' response reveals that God's kingdom is not an external power that arrives with worldly fanfare but a present, internal reality.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3907}}` is a highly specific word used to make a profound theological point. It defines the "ocular evidence" that the Pharisees expected but that Jesus explicitly denied as the means for identifying God's **kingdom**. The term underscores that the reign of **God** `{{G2316}}` is a spiritual truth to be experienced, not a physical spectacle to be observed.
TRV