hatsoff

What is the significance of John's "Comforter"? Does it perhaps refer to the Trinity? If not, what, then?

Also, what do you think is the reason for his initial "the word" analogy?

Thanks in advance, all!

cas07

i believe the "comforter" to be the holy spirit, part of the trinity. i also believe that "the word" ties Jesus into the trinity as well. but that is just my belief - i am sure there are other interpretations. hope this helped

hatsoff

Thankyou for your response, but I need to know *why* you think what you do, not just *what* you think.

Toto

Muslims sometimes try to claim that the "comforter" is Mohammed, and this verse presages the coming of Mohammed.

Previous thread on The Paraklete.

References to "the word" are references to the Logos, a concept that carries a lot of baggage, and which Western Christians often try to work into the Trinity.

gstafleu

The translation of parakle^tos seems problematic. The Wikipedia page has "one who consoles - a comforter" or "one who intercedes on our behalf - an advocate", mentioning that "the technical meaning 'lawyer', 'attorney' is rare." My Concise Dictionary of New Testament Greek (Trenchard) has "mediator, helper, intercessor." What is the etymology, somebody who is called to your side?

Gerard Stafleu