### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb παραυτίκα (parautíka), Strong's `{{G3910}}`, is a compound word derived from παρά (para), meaning "beside" or "at," and a derivative of αὐτός (autos), meaning "self" or "itself." This etymology points to a sense of immediacy or "at the very instant." Consequently, its core meaning denotes something that is momentary, instantaneous, or of very brief duration. It emphasizes the fleeting nature of an event or state, contrasting it with anything enduring or permanent. The semantic range is tightly focused on temporal brevity, indicating that something occurs or exists "for a moment" or "for a short time."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word παραυτίκα (parautíka) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence is profoundly significant:
* **[[2 Corinthians 4:17]]**: "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory."
In this pivotal verse, the Apostle Paul employs παραυτίκα to describe the temporal nature of Christian suffering (θλῖψις). He contrasts the "momentary" (παραυτίκα) and "light" (ἐλαφρὸν) affliction with the "far more exceeding and eternal" (καθ’ ὑπερβολὴν εἰς ὑπερβολὴν αἰώνιον) "weight of glory" (βάρος δόξης). The adverb here serves to minimize the present experience of hardship by placing it in stark opposition to the immeasurable and everlasting glory that awaits believers. The context of [[2 Corinthians 4]] is Paul's defense of his apostolic ministry amidst intense persecution and suffering. By labeling the affliction as παραυτίκα, Paul shifts the perspective from the immediate pain to the ultimate, enduring hope. This single usage underscores a fundamental Pauline theological principle: present suffering is transient and serves as a prelude to an eternal, glorious reality.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate παραυτίκα, it is helpful to consider words and concepts that express similar or contrasting temporal ideas:
* **Contrasting Terms:**
* αἰώνιος (aiōnios, `{{G166}}`): "eternal," "everlasting." This is the direct antithesis to παραυτίκα in [[2 Corinthians 4:17]], highlighting the vast difference between the temporary nature of affliction and the unending nature of glory.
* ἀΐδιος (aidios, `{{G126}}`): Also meaning "eternal" or "everlasting," found in [[Romans 1:20]] and [[Jude 1:6]].
* **Terms for Short Duration/Brevity:** While not direct synonyms, these words also convey limited time:
* ὀλίγος (oligos, `{{G3641}}`): "little," "small," can refer to a short period of time (e.g., [[James 4:14]] "for a little while").
* βραχύς (brachys, `{{G1024}}`): "short," "brief" (e.g., [[Hebrews 2:7]] "for a little while lower than the angels").
* πρόσκαιρος (proskairos, `{{G4340}}`): "for a season," "temporary," "transient" (e.g., [[Matthew 13:21]]).
* **Concepts:** The overarching concept related to παραυτίκα is eschatological hope, where present realities are viewed through the lens of future, eternal realities. It also touches upon the theme of perseverance through tribulation.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of παραυτίκα in [[2 Corinthians 4:17]] is immense. It provides a profound theological framework for understanding suffering in the Christian life.
1. **Redemptive Perspective on Suffering:** The word reorients the believer's perspective on trials. Suffering is not meaningless or ultimately destructive, but "momentary" and instrumental ("working for us"). It is a transient phase, not the ultimate reality. This perspective transforms affliction from a source of despair into a catalyst for eternal glory.
2. **Eschatological Hope:** παραυτίκα functions as a powerful reminder of the Christian's future hope. The brevity of present troubles is juxtaposed with the immeasurable and eternal weight of glory, emphasizing that the best is yet to come. This provides immense encouragement and motivation for endurance.
3. **Divine Sovereignty and Purpose:** The "momentary" nature of affliction implies that God is in control of its duration and purpose. It is not arbitrary but part of a larger divine plan that culminates in eternal glory. This fosters trust in God's wisdom and goodness, even amidst hardship.
4. **Call to Perseverance:** Knowing that suffering is παραυτίκα fuels perseverance. Believers are called to fix their eyes not on what is seen and temporary, but on what is unseen and eternal ([[2 Corinthians 4:18]]). The fleeting nature of present difficulties makes the pursuit of eternal rewards seem eminently rational and desirable.
### Summary
παραυτίκα (`{{G3910}}`) is a Greek adverb that signifies something "momentary" or "at the very instant," highlighting extreme brevity. Despite its singular occurrence in the New Testament, specifically in [[2 Corinthians 4:17]], its impact is profound. There, it serves to starkly contrast the temporary and light nature of present Christian affliction with the immeasurable and eternal weight of future glory. Theologically, παραυτίκα offers a vital perspective on suffering, reframing it as a transient, purposeful experience that paves the way for ultimate, everlasting joy. It powerfully undergirds Christian eschatological hope, encouraging perseverance by emphasizing that present trials are fleeting in comparison to the eternal realities secured in Christ.
TRV