### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epathroízō**, represented by `{{G1865}}`, is a specific term used to describe the act of assembling or accumulating. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. The definition, "to gather thick together," indicates a dense collection of people, and the word is formed from ἐπί and another term meaning "to assemble."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical usage, `{{G1865}}` establishes the setting for a direct confrontation between Jesus and the crowd. The verse records, "And when the **people** were **gathered thick together**, he began to say, This is an evil generation" [[Luke 11:29]]. The word emphasizes the physical press of the multitude, creating a tense atmosphere just before Jesus delivers his rebuke for their persistent seeking of a sign.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Luke 11:29]] help clarify the scene:
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos** (a throng; multitude, people, press): This is the noun for the group being gathered. It often refers to the large crowds that followed Jesus, such as the **multitudes** He had compassion on [[Matthew 9:36]].
* `{{G756}}` **árchomai** (to commence; begin): This verb describes the action that immediately follows the gathering. Jesus **began** his discourse at this moment, just as the apostles **began** to speak in other tongues after being filled with the Holy Ghost [[Acts 2:4]].
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to say, speak, tell, utter): This is the word for the speech that Jesus initiated. It is a verb used for significant declarations, including when Jesus **saith**, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" [[John 14:6]].
* `{{G1161}}` **dé** (but, and): This primary particle connects the gathering of the people with the start of Jesus' speech, serving as a continuative conjunction in the narrative flow [[Luke 11:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1865}}` is derived entirely from its narrative function.
* **The Scene for a Rebuke:** The act of the crowd "gathering thick together" serves as the catalyst for a moment of divine teaching. The dense presence of the **people** `{{G3793}}` prompts Jesus to address the unbelief of the generation directly [[Luke 11:29]].
* **The Press of the Crowd:** The word highlights the intensity of the crowds seeking Jesus. This physical gathering of a **multitude** `{{G3793}}` is a common precursor to major teachings and events in His ministry.
* **Initiation of a Message:** The gathering described by `{{G1865}}` immediately precedes a critical action, where Jesus **began** `{{G756}}` to **say** `{{G3004}}` that no sign would be given except the sign of Jonas.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1865}}` is a highly specific verb whose importance comes from its role in setting a scene. While not a foundational theological term itself, its singular use in scripture vividly portrays the crowd pressing in on Jesus. This action of being "gathered thick together" creates the necessary context for the significant pronouncement that follows, demonstrating how a precise action word can establish the framework for a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative.
TRV