Lexical Summary paraplésios: Similar, resembling, nearly Original Word: παραπλήσιος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance nigh unto. Neuter of a compound of para and the base of plesion (as adverb); close by, i.e. (figuratively) almost -- nigh unto. see GREEK para see GREEK plesion NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom a comp. of para and the same as plésion Definition coming near, nearly resembling NASB Translation point (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 3897: παραπλήσιονπαραπλήσιον (neuter of the adjective παραπλήσιος), adverb, near to, almost to: ἠσθένησεν παραπλήσιον θανάτῳ (cf. Winer's Grammar, § 54, 6), Philippians 2:27. (Thucydides 7, 19; in like manner, Polybius) Topical Lexicon Meaning in Context The term παραπλήσιον conveys the idea of something being “nearly” or “almost” of the same kind. In Philippians 2:27 it describes Epaphroditus as having been “at the point of death,” emphasizing how closely he approached that boundary without crossing it. Occurrence in Scripture Philippians 2:27 stands as the lone New Testament use: “He was ill, and nearly died. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow” (Berean Standard Bible). Historical and Cultural Background Paul is writing from imprisonment to a congregation that had sent Epaphroditus with financial aid (Philippians 4:18). Travel from Philippi to Rome was arduous; exposure to disease and exhaustion was common for couriers who shared the hardships of the apostle’s chains (Philippians 1:13). The Greek world viewed grave illness as an omen and often sought pagan healing rites. By contrast, Paul interprets recovery through the lens of divine mercy, reinforcing the church’s distinct identity amid a polytheistic culture. Theological Significance 1. Divine Compassion: Paul attributes Epaphroditus’ recovery to God’s mercy, underscoring the Lord’s sovereignty over life and death (Psalm 68:20). Ministry Application • Encourage Care for Gospel Workers: Modern congregations should emulate Philippi’s tangible support while also recognizing the risks borne by missionaries. Related Biblical Themes Nearness to death as a proving ground of faith appears elsewhere: Hezekiah’s illness (Isaiah 38:1-5), Lazarus’ resurrection (John 11:4), and Paul’s own deliverance “so that we might not rely on ourselves but on God” (2 Corinthians 1:9). Each account echoes Philippians 2:27: God draws near when His people draw near to the edge, and His mercy becomes a testimony that strengthens the church. Forms and Transliterations παραπλησιον παραπλήσιον paraplesion paraplēsion paraplḗsionLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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