παραιτέομαι
paraiteomai
to refuse/excuse
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word παραιτέομαι (paraitomai) is a verb that means "to refuse" or "to excuse." It is used 12 times in the Bible, indicating its importance in various contexts. In essence, this word describes the act of declining or withholding something, often due to a lack of responsibility or accountability. The range of usage for παραιτέομαι is quite broad, encompassing both literal and figurative meanings. It can refer to refusing a request, excusing oneself from a task, or even evading blame. This versatility suggests that the word was used to convey a sense of avoidance or non-accountability in various situations. The significance of παραιτέομαι lies in its ability to highlight the importance of taking responsibility and accountability. By examining its usage in the Bible, we can see how this word is often used in contrast to words that convey a sense of initiative, courage, or commitment. This contrast serves as a reminder of the value of standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
12 total occurrences across the text
Now at the feast he used to release to them one prisoner, whom they asked of him.
Luke 14:18They all as one began to make excuses. “The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please have me excused.’
Luke 14:18They all as one began to make excuses. “The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please have me excused.’
Luke 14:19“Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I must go try them out. Please have me excused.’
Acts 25:11For if I have done wrong and have committed anything worthy of death, I don’t refuse to die; but if none of those things is true that they accuse me of, no one can give me up to them. I appeal to Caesar!”
1 Timothy 4:7But refuse profane and old wives’ fables. Exercise yourself toward godliness.
1 Timothy 5:11But refuse younger widows, for when they have grown wanton against Christ, they desire to marry,
2 Timothy 2:23But refuse foolish and ignorant questionings, knowing that they generate strife.
Titus 3:10Avoid a factious man after a first and second warning,
Hebrews 12:19the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which those who heard it begged that not one more word should be spoken to them,
Hebrews 12:25See that you don’t refuse him who speaks. For if they didn’t escape when they refused him who warned on the earth, how much more will we not escape who turn away from him who warns from heaven,
Hebrews 12:25See that you don’t refuse him who speaks. For if they didn’t escape when they refused him who warned on the earth, how much more will we not escape who turn away from him who warns from heaven,