### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **paracheimázō**, represented by `{{G3914}}`, means **to winter near, i.e. stay with over the rainy season**. Derived from παρά and χειμάζω, this practical term appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. It describes the necessary act of finding a safe and suitable place to stay during the winter months, a crucial consideration for travel and ministry in the ancient world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3914}}` is used exclusively in the context of Paul's journeys and missionary work. It highlights the logistical realities of travel, as seen when the crew of Paul's ship sought a better haven to **winter** in, ultimately leading to their shipwreck [[Acts 27:12]]. After being shipwrecked, the ship they eventually departed on had itself **wintered** on the isle [[Acts 28:11]]. The term also reveals Paul's strategic planning and relational heart; he tells Titus he has "determined" to **winter** in Nicopolis [[Titus 3:12]] and expresses a desire to **winter** with the Corinthian believers to spend more time with them [[1 Corinthians 16:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the circumstances surrounding the decision to **winter**:
* `{{G3915}}` **paracheimasía** (a wintering over): This noun form is used in direct connection with its verb counterpart, describing the unsuitability of a harbor for the act of **wintering in** [[Acts 27:12]].
* `{{G428}}` **aneúthetos** (not commodious): This adjective explains *why* a new location was sought, as the existing haven was **not commodious** for wintering [[Acts 27:12]].
* `{{G3887}}` **paraménō** (to stay near, i.e. remain... abide, continue): Paul uses this word alongside `{{G3914}}` to express his hope not just to stay for the winter, but to **abide** relationally with the Corinthians [[1 Corinthians 16:6]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide... determine, judge): This word shows that wintering was a matter of careful deliberation, as Paul had **determined** where to stay [[Titus 3:12]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3914}}` illustrates key practical aspects of apostolic ministry. While not a theological term in itself, its context reveals important principles:
* **Strategic Planning:** The choice of where to **winter** was a deliberate and strategic decision. Paul's statement that he "determined" `{{G2919}}` to **winter** in Nicopolis shows forethought in his ministerial movements [[Titus 3:12]].
* **Logistical Realities:** The term grounds the biblical narrative in the real-world constraints of travel. The decision to move from a harbor that was "not commodious" `{{G428}}` demonstrates that practical matters were critical to the mission's progress [[Acts 27:12]].
* **Fellowship and Ministry:** For Paul, wintering was not merely a pause but an opportunity for deeper fellowship. His desire to **winter** `{{G3914}}` with the Corinthians was so he could "abide" `{{G3887}}` with them, strengthening the church [[1 Corinthians 16:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3914}}` is a practical word that provides a window into the logistical and relational realities of the early church. It moves beyond a simple definition of staying for the season, showing how these necessary pauses were integrated into the strategic planning and relational goals of Paul's ministry. The word demonstrates that even mundane decisions about travel and lodging were part of the larger fabric of God's work through His servants.
TRV