παρατήρησις

observation

Definition

Paratērēsis refers to the act of careful observation, scrutiny, or watching. In its only New Testament occurrence, it describes the Pharisees' expectation of a visible, observable sign of the coming kingdom of God (Luke 17:20). The word implies a close, attentive watching for something specific, often with an expectation of a visible or outward manifestation. It can carry a sense of vigilant or even suspicious observation, as seen in its broader Greek usage where it sometimes described the watchful observation of omens or signs.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 17:20. Here, Jesus responds to the Pharisees who were asking when the kingdom of God would come. He tells them, "The kingdom of God is not coming with observation (paratērēsis)." The context is a confrontation about the nature of God's kingdom, contrasting the Pharisees' expectation of an observable, political event with the spiritual reality Jesus proclaims.

Etymology

Derived from the compound verb paratēreō, which combines the preposition παρά (para, meaning 'beside, alongside') and the verb τηρέω (tēreō, meaning 'to watch, guard, keep'). Literally, it means 'to watch closely' or 'to observe from alongside.' The noun form, paratērēsis, thus denotes the act or result of such close observation.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights a key contrast in Jesus' teaching about the kingdom of God. The Pharisees sought a kingdom that could be identified by external, political signs (paratērēsis). Jesus declares that God's reign is not of that observable, worldly nature; instead, it is a spiritual reality present "in your midst" (Luke 17:21). Understanding this Greek term enriches our reading by clarifying that the kingdom's arrival is a matter of spiritual perception and faith, not public spectacle or human calculation.

In the first-century Jewish context, many expected the Messiah to establish a visible, national kingdom by overthrowing Roman rule. The Pharisees' question reflects this cultural and political anticipation. The word paratērēsis, implying careful observation for signs, fits this mindset of watching for tangible, prophetic fulfillments. Jesus' response radically redefines the expectation, shifting the focus from external observation to internal reception.

skopeō (skopeō, G4648) — to look at, contemplate, consider; a more general term for observation or aim. blepō (blepō, G991) — to see, perceive; a common verb for physical sight or mental understanding. tēreō (tēreō, G5083) — to keep, guard, observe; the root verb focusing on guarding or keeping commandments.

Word Details

Scripture References