πάρεσις

overlooking

Definition

The Greek word πάρεσις (paresis) means 'overlooking,' 'passing over,' or 'letting go unpunished.' In its sole New Testament occurrence in Romans 3:25, it describes God's temporary forbearance in dealing with human sin prior to the atoning work of Christ. It signifies a provisional suspension of punishment, not a full forgiveness or pardon. This concept is distinct from the more complete term 'forgiveness' (ἄφεσις, aphesis), as it highlights God's patience and restraint in the historical period before the cross.

Biblical Usage

Πάρεσις is used only once in the New Testament, in Romans 3:25. In this context, the Apostle Paul explains that God, in His divine patience, 'passed over' (παρέσις) sins committed beforehand. This usage is specific to describing God's historical posture of forbearance toward sin during the time of the Old Covenant, setting the stage for the definitive solution provided through Christ's sacrificial death.

Etymology

Πάρεσις is a noun derived from the verb παρίημι (pariēmi), which means 'to let go,' 'to relax,' or 'to neglect.' It is formed from the preposition παρά (para, 'beside') and ἵημι (hiēmi, 'to send'). The core idea is of sending something aside or letting it pass by. It is a cognate of the more common New Testament word for forgiveness, ἄφεσις (aphesis), which carries the stronger sense of release or dismissal.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it clarifies the nature of God's justice and patience in salvation history. In Romans 3:25, πάρεσις explains that sins before Christ were not finally dealt with but were temporarily 'overlooked' by God. This underscores that true and permanent justification comes only through faith in Jesus's propitiatory sacrifice. Understanding this distinction enriches the reading of Romans by highlighting the necessity of the cross as the fulfillment of God's just character, moving from forbearance (paresis) to full forgiveness (aphesis).

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'passing over' offenses or delaying punishment was known in both legal and relational contexts. For Paul's original audience, this term would resonate with ideas of judicial clemency or patience. The key difference from a modern understanding is that πάρεσις in its biblical usage is not indifference but a deliberate, temporary act of divine restraint rooted in God's plan for ultimate redemption through Christ.

ἄφεσις (aphesis, G859) — denotes a full release, pardon, or forgiveness, whereas πάρεσις is a temporary passing over. χάρις (charis, G5485) — grace or favor, the broader disposition of God from which His forbearance flows. ἀνοχή (anochē, G463) — forbearance or patience, a closely related concept describing God's restraint.

Word Details

Scripture References