from the present participle of πάρειμι; a being near, i.e. advent (often, return; specially, of Christ to punish Jerusalem, or finally the wicked); (by implication) physically, aspect:--coming, presence.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parousía**, represented by `{{G3952}}`, primarily signifies **a being near** or **advent**. It appears 24 times in 24 unique verses. The term carries a dual meaning, referring both to the physical **presence** of a person and, more significantly, to the return or **coming** of Christ, whether to punish Jerusalem or, in a final sense, the wicked.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3952}}` is used in two primary contexts. It can describe the simple physical **presence** of an individual, as when Paul contrasts his own **presence** with his absence [[Philippians 2:12]] or when his "bodily **presence**" is described as weak [[2 Corinthians 10:10]]. The term also marks the arrival of companions, such as the **coming** of Titus [[2 Corinthians 7:6]] or Stephanas [[1 Corinthians 16:17]]. The most prominent use of `{{G3952}}`, however, is eschatological, referring to the anticipated **coming** of the Lord Jesus Christ. The disciples directly ask about the sign of his **coming** and the end of the world [[Matthew 24:3]]. This event is described as a future certainty that believers are to patiently await [[James 5:8]], and it will be as sudden and visible as lightning [[Matthew 24:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of the **parousía**:
* `{{G666}}` **apousía** (a being away): This word for **absence** is used as a direct antonym to **parousía**, highlighting its core meaning of nearness. Paul uses them together to contrast his influence on the Philippians whether he is with them or away [[Philippians 2:12]].
* `{{G1448}}` **engízō** (to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach): This verb emphasizes the imminence of the **parousía**. It is used to declare that "the **coming** of the Lord **draweth nigh**," urging believers to establish their hearts [[James 5:8]].
* `{{G1997}}` **episynagōgḗ** (a complete collection; especially a Christian meeting (for worship)): This term for **gathering together** is explicitly linked to the **parousía** of Christ, showing that a central part of this event is the gathering of believers to Him [[2 Thessalonians 2:1]].
* `{{G5319}}` **phaneróō** (to render apparent (literally or figuratively)): Meaning to **appear** or be made manifest, this word is used to describe the moment of Christ's return. Believers are to abide in him so that when he shall **appear**, they will not be ashamed at his **coming** [[1 John 2:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3952}}` is profound, shaping the Christian hope and view of history's culmination.
* **A Call to Holy Living:** The expectation of Christ's **coming** is a powerful motive for sanctification. Believers are to be preserved **blameless** `{{G274}}` unto the **coming** of the Lord Jesus Christ [[1 Thessalonians 5:23]], with hearts established unblameable in holiness [[1 Thessalonians 3:13]].
* **The Believer's Hope and Joy:** The **coming** of the Lord is presented as the believer's great hope. It is the time when Christ appears for those who are his [[1 Corinthians 15:23]] and when those who are **alive** `{{G2198}}` and **remain** `{{G4035}}` will meet the Lord [[1 Thessalonians 4:15]].
* **The Day of Judgment:** The **parousía** is not only a time of salvation but also of judgment. The Lord will destroy the "Wicked" one with the brightness of his **coming** [[2 Thessalonians 2:8]]. It is also associated with the coming of "him, whose **coming** is after the **working** `{{G1753}}` of **Satan** `{{G4567}}`" [[2 Thessalonians 2:9]].
* **Final Dissolution and Renewal:** The **coming** of the day of God will bring about a cosmic dissolution, where the heavens will be dissolved and the elements will **melt** `{{G5080}}` with fervent heat [[2 Peter 3:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3952}}` is a critical term that moves from the simple idea of physical **presence** to the ultimate theological concept of Christ's final **advent**. It serves as a cornerstone of Christian eschatology, providing believers with a future hope that demands present patience and holiness. The word encapsulates both the promise of salvation and the certainty of judgment, defining the believer's posture of waiting for the consummation of all things.
TRV