Paraclete
TextsWhat is the meaning of Paraclete in the Bible?
The term Paraclete, appearing five times in the Johannine literature, functions primarily as a legal advocate or intercessor, with secondary connotations of comforter.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the Paraclete as a legal advocate clarifies the Johannine view of Jesus' ongoing presence after the resurrection, revealing how early Christians conceptualized the Holy Spirit as the continuation of divine guidance and defense.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Paraclete functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Paraclete in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Paraclete clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Paraclete." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/paraclete/