παραμυθία

encouragement, comfort

Definition

The noun παραμυθία (paramythia) refers to the act or result of speaking words of comfort, encouragement, or consolation to someone. It implies a personal, verbal ministry of coming alongside another person to strengthen and uplift them, often in a context of distress or need. In the New Testament, its specific use in 1 Corinthians 14:3 describes the edifying, encouraging, and consoling function of prophecy for the gathered church community. It is closely related to the concept of exhortation but carries a stronger nuance of soothing comfort.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 14:3. Here, the Apostle Paul lists 'encouragement' (παραμυθία) as one of the three primary purposes of prophetic speech within the church assembly, alongside 'upbuilding' and 'consolation.' Its singular usage highlights its specific application to the verbal, Spirit-empowered ministry meant to strengthen and comfort the gathered believers.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition παρά (para, meaning 'beside' or 'alongside') and a root related to μῦθος (mythos, 'speech, word') or μυθέομαι (mytheomai, 'to speak, tell'). Thus, it literally means 'a speaking alongside,' picturing someone coming close to speak words of comfort and encouragement directly to another person.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it describes a core function of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy, within the body of Christ. It emphasizes that God's comfort and encouragement are often mediated through the spoken words of fellow believers, making ministry personal and communal. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that biblical 'encouragement' is not a vague feeling but an active, verbal ministry of presence and hope that builds up the church (1 Corinthians 14:3, 26).

In the Greco-Roman world, words of comfort and consolation (paramythia) were a recognized part of philosophical discourse and friendship, often given in times of grief or hardship. The New Testament adapts this concept, infusing it with a distinctly Christian purpose rooted in God's character as the 'God of all comfort' (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) and directing it toward the edification and unity of the church.

παράκλησις (paraklēsis, G3874) — broader term for exhortation, encouragement, or appeal; often more urgent or instructive. παρακαλέω (parakaleō, G3870) — the verb meaning to call to one's side, to comfort, exhort, or encourage. παραμυθέομαι (paramytheomai, G3888) — the verb form of παραμυθία, meaning to speak words of comfort or encouragement.

Word Details

Scripture References