παρατήρησις
paratḗrēsis
G3907 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
Act of close observation, scrutiny, or careful watching. In particular contexts, refers to watching for signs or evidence through careful inspection. The primary sense is the act or process of observing closely, often in order to detect, examine, or monitor a development or phenomenon. In some contexts, it can imply waiting for external or visible indication as proof.
Semantic Range
close observation, scrutiny, careful watching, search for signs, inspection, monitoring for evidence, watching for external indications
Root / Etymology
From παρατηρέω (to observe closely, to watch attentively), itself from παρά (alongside) + τηρέω (to guard, watch). Thus, παρατήρησις is a noun of action formed from the verb, indicating the act of close observation.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term παρατήρησις is rare in extant Greek literature, found notably in Hellenistic and early Roman period sources. In the New Testament (Luke 17:20), it is used in the context of the 'kingdom of God' and signifies the expectation or search for observable signs or visible proof—a concept tied to messianic expectation and apocalyptic observation. The word carries overtones of scrutiny, vigilance, or searching for signs, particularly as distinctive from casual noticing. In non-biblical Koine, it may refer to watchful observation for the appearance or arrival of something significant. English translations typically render this as 'observation' or 'careful watching,' but may miss the nuance of 'looking for outward signs' or 'scrupulous watching for evidence.' The term does not have a strong religious connotation in Greek outside of these biblical contexts, and is better understood as technical or formal scrutiny rather than ordinary seeing.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from παρατηρέω; inspection, i.e. ocular evidence:--obervation.
Root Family
παρατηρ- (paratḗrēsis) — to observe, to watch closely, to scrutinize
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3907-01 |
παρατηρήσεως | paratereseos | N GEN F SG |
observation | of close scrutiny | observation | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3907-01 |
Luke 17:20 | παρατηρήσεως | paratereseos | N GEN F SG |
observation | of close scrutiny | observation |