παραπλήσιον

near to, nearly

Definition

The adverb παραπλήσιον means 'near to' or 'nearly,' indicating close proximity in degree, manner, or state. In its sole New Testament occurrence, it describes a state of being close to death, specifically that Epaphroditus was 'near to death' (Philippians 2:27). It conveys not just physical closeness but a severe, imminent condition. The word functions to emphasize the gravity of a situation, highlighting how something (like an illness) has brought a person to the very brink.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Philippians 2:27. It appears in a personal, narrative context where Paul describes the severe illness of his coworker Epaphroditus. The usage is adverbial, modifying the verb 'to be,' to stress the extreme seriousness and life-threatening nature of the illness. There are no other patterns, as it is a hapax legomenon (a word occurring only once).

Etymology

Derived from the preposition παρά (para, G3844), meaning 'beside' or 'alongside,' combined with the root of the adjective πλησίον (plēsion, G4139), meaning 'near' or 'neighbor.' Literally, it means 'beside the near (thing),' which developed into the adverbial sense of 'close to' or 'almost.' It shares a root with the common word for 'neighbor,' emphasizing relational or spatial proximity.

Semantic Range

While not a central theological term, its use in Philippians 2:27 enriches the reading of Paul's pastoral heart and the value of Christian community. It underscores the real physical cost and risk involved in gospel ministry, as Epaphroditus fell ill 'for the work of Christ' (Philippians 2:30). Understanding this Greek term highlights the depth of Paul's concern and the shared vulnerability within the body of Christ, reinforcing themes of compassion, sacrifice, and mutual care among believers.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, severe illness often carried a high mortality risk with limited medical recourse. Describing someone as 'near to death' was a stark, realistic statement about their precarious condition. This differs from some modern, softened expressions for serious illness. The term would have immediately communicated a sense of urgency and grave danger to the original readers.

ἐγγύς (engys, G1451) — emphasizes spatial or temporal nearness, often used for the 'nearness' of the kingdom. σχεδόν (schedon, G4975) — means 'almost' or 'nearly,' but is more general and less intense, used for approximations rather than imminent danger.

Word Details

Scripture References