### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pareisdýnō**, represented by `{{G3921}}`, is defined as to settle in alongside, or to lodge stealthily. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. The term specifically conveys the idea of a surreptitious, deceptive entry, with the verb itself being a compound that implies coming in from the side in a hidden manner.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G3921}}` is used to issue a severe warning about false teachers infiltrating the church. Jude describes how "certain men **crept in unawares**" [[Jude 1:4]]. The verse immediately characterizes these individuals as "ungodly men" who were destined for condemnation, and whose purpose is to corrupt the community by turning God's grace into licentiousness and denying Jesus Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole biblical context in [[Jude 1:4]] illuminate the nature of this stealthy infiltration:
* `{{G765}}` **asebḗs** (irreverent, i.e. (by extension) impious or wicked:-- ungodly (man)): This word describes the fundamental character of those who "creep in unawares." These are the individuals for whom Christ died [[Romans 5:6]] and against whom the law is directed [[1 Timothy 1:9]].
* `{{G766}}` **asélgeia** (licentiousness (sometimes including other vices):--filthy, lasciviousness, wantonness): This identifies the corrupting influence brought by the infiltrators, who turn grace into a license for immoral behavior. It is listed as one of the manifest works of the flesh [[Galatians 5:19]].
* `{{G720}}` **arnéomai** (to contradict, i.e. disavow, reject, abnegate:--deny, refuse): This points to the ultimate doctrinal error of the false teachers. Their actions are a form of "denying" the Lord, which can be done through works [[Titus 1:16]] or by professing a form of godliness while rejecting its power [[2 Timothy 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3921}}` is concentrated in its single usage, providing a powerful warning against internal subversion.
* **Deceptive Infiltration:** The word's core meaning emphasizes that the danger comes not from an open, external assault, but from a subtle, unnoticed entry of corrupting influences from within the community [[Jude 1:4]].
* **Signs of Subversion:** The men who "creep in unawares" are identified by their fruit: they are ungodly, they twist grace into lasciviousness, and they deny the authority of God and Jesus Christ [[Jude 1:4]].
* **Divine Foreknowledge:** The passage links this stealthy infiltration to divine judgment, noting that these men were "before of old ordained to this condemnation" [[Jude 1:4]], showing that such corruption does not go unnoticed by God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3921}}` is a rare but vivid term that describes the insidious nature of false teaching. Though used only once, it encapsulates the danger of a threat that is subtle in its arrival but devastating in its effect. It serves as a permanent scriptural caution to be vigilant against those who would secretly introduce ungodliness, licentiousness, and a denial of the faith into the body of believers.
TRV