παραθαλάσσιος (parathalassios)
parathalassios
seaside
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective parathalassios describes a location situated directly beside the sea. Derived from the preposition para, meaning "beside," and thalassa, meaning "sea," it functions as a precise geographical marker rather than a vague descriptor. It identifies places that are literally adjacent to the water’s edge.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Matthew 4:13. The text uses it to locate Jesus’ new base of operations in Capernaum, describing it as a "seaside" town. This specific usage anchors the narrative in a tangible setting, highlighting the coastal nature of his ministry hub.
Its rarity makes this single occurrence significant. By choosing parathalassios instead of more common terms for "near" or "coastal," the author emphasizes the immediate proximity to the water. The word serves as a concise label for Capernaum’s position on the shores of Galilee, setting the stage for the fishing ministry that follows.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word parathalassios simply means "seaside." It appears only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 4:13, when Jesus moves to Capernaum. This small detail places Him right on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, a busy hub of fishing and trade.
For your faith, this location is more than just geography. It shows that God meets us in the everyday rhythms of life. Jesus chose a place where people worked hard and lived closely together. His presence there suggests that the sacred is found in our daily routines and communities.
You can take comfort in knowing that your own surroundings are not separate from God's work. Whether you are near water or far inland, His presence is real. He brings peace to your specific context, turning ordinary places into spaces where hope can grow.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [is] on the sea-side1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- παραθαλασσίαν1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 4:13
Leaving Nazareth, he came and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali,
This verse uses the word to identify Capernaum as Jesus' new home, anchoring His ministry in a tangible, coastal community.