παραβιάζομαι

I urge, constrain by entreaties

Definition

The verb παραβιάζομαι means to urge, press, or constrain someone, typically through persistent and forceful entreaty. It carries the sense of overcoming another's reluctance or resistance by earnest pleading, not by physical force. In Luke 24:29, the disciples on the road to Emmaus 'urged strongly' (ESV) Jesus to stay with them, demonstrating a hospitable and compelling invitation. In Acts 16:15, Lydia 'prevailed upon' (ESV) Paul and his companions to stay at her home, showing a determined and persuasive hospitality rooted in her new faith.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both in narrative contexts describing urgent hospitality. In Luke 24:29, it describes the disciples' insistent invitation to the unrecognized risen Jesus. In Acts 16:15, it depicts Lydia's persuasive urging of Paul's missionary team after her baptism. Both instances occur in the context of a transformative encounter with the gospel, leading to a compelling offer of lodging and fellowship.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition παρά (para, meaning 'beside' or 'alongside') and the verb βιάζομαι (biazomai, meaning 'to force' or 'to use violence'). The compound suggests applying pressure 'alongside' someone—through insistent verbal urging rather than physical compulsion. The root βιάζομαι can imply forceful action, but with the prefix παρά, the force is softened to one of strong, persistent persuasion.

Semantic Range

This word highlights the active, persuasive nature of biblical hospitality and discipleship. In both key passages, the 'urging' follows a profound spiritual encounter (the revelation of Christ in Luke 24, and conversion in Acts 16), showing that genuine faith often expresses itself in earnest, persistent invitations to deeper fellowship. It models how believers should compellingly invite others—and Christ himself—into closer relationship, reflecting the kingdom's welcoming nature.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, hospitality was a sacred social duty. To refuse an offer of hospitality, or to refuse to extend it, could cause serious offense. The 'urging' described by this word reflects the cultural expectation of persistent, almost ritualized offers and acceptances of hospitality to properly establish guest-host bonds. The intensity goes beyond modern politeness, underscoring the deep social and spiritual significance of sharing a home.

παρακαλέω (parakaleō, G3870) — a broader term for exhorting, comforting, or inviting, often less forceful. ἀναγκάζω (anankazō, G315) — to compel or constrain, sometimes with a stronger sense of necessity or force.

Word Details

Scripture References