"a by-word, proverb, adage, 2 Pet. 2:22; in NT an obscure saying, enigma, Jn. 16:25, 29; a parable, similitude, figurative discourse, Jn. 10:6*"
Definition and meaning
a by-word, proverb, adage, 2 Pet. 2:22; in NT an obscure saying, enigma, Jn. 16:25, 29; a parable, similitude, figurative discourse, Jn. 10:6*
In the original Greek the word is written: παροιμία
Historical context
John wrote for an audience familiar with both Jewish Scripture and Greek philosophy. The logos — the Word — was a term Greek philosophers used for the rational principle underlying the universe. John takes that concept and says: that logos became a person and lived among us. Crucifixion was the Roman execution method designed to maximize public humiliation, reserved for slaves and rebels.
The people who first heard this word were not reading a book — they were living through empires, oppression, exile, and covenant. Every word carried the weight of that reality. Understanding it changes how you read Scripture.
Scripture references
These are the most notable occurrences of paroimia (G3942) across the King James Bible.
This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.
These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.
His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb.
But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
Refiner gives you the full lexicon entry, AI-powered verse insight, historical commentary, cross-references, and voice study — all in one place.
Free to start · Disciple $4.99/mo · Shepherd $9.99/mo
Common questions
Strong's G3942 (paroimia) is a Greek word that means: a by-word, proverb, adage, 2 Pet. 2:22; in NT an obscure saying, enigma, Jn. 16:25, 29; a parable, similitude, figurative discourse, Jn. 10:6* It appears 4 times in the King James Bible.
The word paroimia (G3942) appears 4 times in the original Greek text.
Strong's G3942 is paroimia, a Greek word defined as: a by-word, proverb, adage, 2 Pet. 2:22; in NT an obscure saying, enigma, Jn. 16:25, 29; a parable, similitude, figurative discourse, Jn. 10:6*. James Strong catalogued this in his 1890 concordance to help English readers study the original languages of the Bible.
paroimia is a Greek word found in the New Testament.