from παρά and τίθημι; to place alongside, i.e. present (food, truth); by implication, to deposit (as a trust or for protection):--allege, commend, commit (the keeping of), put forth, set before.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paratíthēmi**, represented by `{{G3908}}`, means to place alongside or present, and by implication, to deposit something as a trust or for protection. It appears **22 times** across **18 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning encompasses the literal act of setting food before someone, the presentation of truth, and the solemn act of entrusting something of value to another's care.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3908}}` is used in several distinct ways. It describes the physical act of serving food, as when the disciples were instructed to **set before** the multitude the loaves and fishes [[Mark 6:41]]. It is also used for presenting truth, such as when Jesus **put... forth** parables to the crowds to explain the kingdom of heaven [[Matthew 13:24]]. The most significant use involves entrusting or commending something for safekeeping. Paul **commits** a charge to Timothy [[1 Timothy 1:18]], and in his final moments, Jesus **commends** his spirit into the Father's hands [[Luke 23:46]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of **paratíthēmi**:
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This word often precedes the action of `{{G3908}}`. In the feeding of the multitude, Jesus first **gave** `{{G1325}}` the loaves to the disciples, who were then to **set before** `{{G3908}}` the people, showing the connection between receiving a gift and presenting it to others [[Luke 9:16]].
* `{{G1272}}` **dianoígō** (to open thoroughly, to expound): This term is paired with `{{G3908}}` in the context of proclaiming truth. Paul was **opening** `{{G1272}}` the scriptures and **alleging** `{{G3908}}` from them that Jesus was the Christ, linking the act of explaining with the act of presenting evidence [[Acts 17:3]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith, to entrust): The act of commending is rooted in faith. After ordaining elders, the apostles **commended** `{{G3908}}` them to the Lord, on whom they **believed** `{{G4100}}`, demonstrating that entrusting someone to God is an expression of faith [[Acts 14:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3908}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of the Christian faith.
* **Divine Stewardship:** The word establishes a principle of responsibility for what has been entrusted. Those to whom much has been **committed** `{{G3908}}` will have much required of them [[Luke 12:48]]. This is seen in Paul's instruction to **commit** `{{G3908}}` sound doctrine to faithful men who can teach others [[2 Timothy 2:2]].
* **Entrusting to God:** A core theme is the act of placing one's complete trust in God. Paul **commends** the Ephesian elders to God and the word of His grace, which is able to build them up [[Acts 20:32]]. Likewise, believers who suffer are to **commit** their souls to a faithful Creator [[1 Peter 4:19]].
* **Presenting the Gospel:** `{{G3908}}` is used to describe the act of setting forth divine truth for consideration. Jesus **put... forth** parables to reveal mysteries of the kingdom [[Matthew 13:31]], and Paul was **alleging** the truth about Christ's suffering and resurrection [[Acts 17:3]].
### Summary
In summary, **paratíthēmi** `{{G3908}}` moves beyond the simple idea of placing an object. It conveys the sacred responsibility of stewardship, the profound trust required to commend one's life to God, and the vital work of presenting spiritual truth. Whether it is a meal being **set before** the hungry [[Acts 16:34]] or the gospel being **committed** to the next generation [[2 Timothy 2:2]], the word underscores an active and purposeful placement based on trust and faith.
TRV