[Greek] παράκλησις (paraklēsis), [Latin] exhortatio, [Latin] consolatio, [Latin] exhortare, [Latin] solacium: a calling beside, consolation, encouragement, comfort, solace, exhortation, appeal, earnest request, a calling to one’s aid, a calling near; Lk.2:25, Lk.6:24, Act.4:36, Act.9:31, Act.13:15, Act.15:31, Rom.12:8, Rom.15:4,5, 1Cor.14:3, 2Cor.1:3-7, 2Cor.7:4,7,13, 2Cor.8:4, 2Cor.8:17, Php.2:1, 1Thess.2:3, 2Thess.2:16, 1Tim.4:13
The Holy Spirit (Paraclete): painting by Corrado Giaquinto (1750)
Background Information:
Greek Hellenism: This term refers to the act of calling someone to oneself. The one called is led back to the one who calls. This is a request for help, consolation, encouragement, and exhortation. Such examples include military assistance, legal support, affirmation (encouragement) from the gods, psychological advice (support), and literary skills.
Counselors: In Herodotus Histories VII,158 the historian states, “I am ready to send to your aid 20,000 men at arms.” In Discourse I, 27, the Stoic philosopher Epictetus states, “If I had suit even about a bit of land, I would call another to defend my interests.” In Epictetetus’ Discourse III,21, he states, “he must know that he is sent a messenger from Zeus to show them that they have wandered.” In Epictetus’ Enchiridion, the philosopher, holding the official consoler office (officium consolandi), uses his wisdom to provide counsel to bereaved and mourning persons. The philosopher states, “When someone treats you badly or says bad things about you, remember that this person acts or speaks in this way because he or she thinks that it is right or required that he or she speak or act that way. Poets would also be commissioned to write consoling poems.
Old Testament: This term, having both divine and human qualities, means counselor and consolation. The true consolation comes from the heart of God alone. Examples of human consolation include Israel, teachers, shepherds, prophets, fathers and mothers. The duty of human comforting falls upon close relatives, pupils, colleagues, teachers, neighbors, prominent citizens, and leaders. Forms of comforting etiquette applies to visits, burials, houses of mourning, trips, and letters (when traveling is not feasible). Hellenistic Judaism speaks to the hope that God has sown in the human race. Palestinian Judaism speaks to the promise of the Messiah who brings the consolation of Israel.
David sent his servants with condolences to Hanun for the loss of his father (2Kg.10:2). They met and journeyed together to give him sympathy and comfort (Job.2:11). I will give full comfort to them and to those who mourn for them (Isa.57:18). We have for our encouragement the holy books that are in our possession (1Macc.12:9). I too will write them encouraging words (1Macc.10:24). Fear not, Jerusalem, He who gave you your name is your encouragement. In Jerusalem you shall find your comfort (Isa.66:13).
New Testament: This term means exhortation (strong warning), encouragement, comfort, and consolation. The church of Macedonia, inspired by God’s grace, earnestly sought to help the holy ones. The Council of Jerusalem made an exhortation that the Gentiles were not bound by the restrictions of the Mosaic Law. Paul calls upon the church communities to provide encouragement and to share in the struggles of others. Simeon was awaiting the consolation of Israel with the coming of Jesus. Paraklesis is used in the prayer of intercession addressed to the Virgin Mary. The Holy Spirit is also referred to as the Paraclete. It is often times that we call upon (ask) the Holy Spirit to intercede for us.
“The churches of Macedonia begged us insistently for the favor of taking part in the service to the holy ones.” 1Cor.8:4
The churches of Macedonia, although struggling in affliction and poverty, felt moved to help others. The churches were inspired by God’s grace.
“When the people read it, they were delighted with the exhortation.” Act.15:31
The Council of Jerusalem stated that the Gentiles were not bound by the restrictions of the Mosaic Law (aside from idol sacrifices and improper marriage). The council’s exhortation was church dogma.
“This man Simeon was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel.” Lk.2:25
The Jews were awaiting for the Messiah for the redemption (consolation) of Israel. The birth of Jesus brings these hopes to fulfillment.
Conclusion:
Paraclete, consolation, consoling, exhortation, solace
It was very interesting to see the many examples of advocates (intercessors) in the Greco-Roman culture. This idea can extend to providing expertise and experience in a given field or science. The philosopher was called upon by the state to provide wisdom and guidance for those experiencing struggles. The lawyer, as a legal advocate, represents the interests of the defendant in the courtroom.
It is significant to note that human nature (grief) has remained constant throughout history, regardless of culture or technology. The coming of the Messiah was very important in providing the consolation of the Jewish people. The scriptures (sacred books) were also a source of comfort for the Hebrews (Jews). It was a great honor for a man to be called the “one who consoles the sorrowing.” The Bible also speaks of a fleeting and futile comfort in goods and riches. Alms can be a great comfort before God.
There are many examples of interceding and advocating in the New Testament culture. Paraklesis involves asking for help, exhortation (calling in the name of the Holy Spirit), and consoling others. This request or invocation in prayer is also influenced by the Old Testament notion of salvation history (divine aid). This helps to shed some light in understanding how the new Christian Church grew and developed.
Many Christians mistakenly think that Catholics “worship” Mary. Mary has a very close connection with her Son Jesus. It is only natural that one can call upon Mary to bring our petitions to Jesus. Mary becomes an important intermediary for us. The wedding at Cana provides scriptural support for Mary’s role as a mediator.