Para (παρά) is one of the most common and versatile Greek prepositions, appearing over 190 times in the New Testament. Its core meaning is 'beside' or 'alongside,' but its usage shifts based on the case of the noun it governs: with genitive ('from the side of'), with dative ('beside/with'), with accusative ('alongside/contrary to').
The theological richness of para comes through in key passages. John uses it repeatedly for the eternal relationships in the Trinity: the Logos was 'with God' (pros ton theon) in John 1:1, but Jesus speaks of glory he had 'with' [para] the Father 'before the world existed' (John 17:5). The Paraclete (G3875, parakletos) is the one who comes 'alongside' — built from para. Romans 11:25 warns against being wise 'in your own estimation' [par heautois]. Para frames relationships — beside, from, alongside. The entire NT story is one of God coming para humanity — the Incarnation as the ultimate 'alongside.'