from ἐπί and συντρέχω; to hasten together upon one place (or a particular occasion):--come running together.
Transliteration:episyntréchō
Pronunciation:ep-ee-soon-trekh'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G1998}}` episyntréchō is a compound word formed from the preposition `{{G1909}}` epí (upon, to, in addition to), the preposition `{{G4862}}` sýn (with, together), and the verb `{{G5143}}` tréchō (to run). Literally, it signifies "to run together upon" or "to hasten together to a particular place or person." The prefix epí adds a directional force, indicating movement *towards* a specific point or individual, while sýn emphasizes the collective nature of the action. Thus, the word conveys the rapid, convergent movement of multiple individuals towards a single focal point, often implying urgency, eagerness, or a spontaneous gathering. Its semantic range is narrow but potent, describing a swift, collective convergence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G1998}}` episyntréchō appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Mark:
* **[[Mark 9:15]]**: "And when the whole crowd saw him, they were greatly amazed, and running up, they greeted him." (ESV)
* Context: This verse immediately follows the account of the Transfiguration, as Jesus, Peter, James, and John descend from the mountain. The scene shifts abruptly to a large crowd awaiting them, among whom are scribes disputing with the disciples.
* Analysis: The verb episyntréchō here describes the crowd's immediate and dynamic response upon seeing Jesus. The phrase "running up" or "coming running together" highlights the spontaneous, eager, and collective movement of the multitude towards Him. Their amazement (ekthambeō) at His appearance, possibly still bearing traces of His transfigured glory or simply due to His sudden presence, propelled them to converge upon Him with a greeting. This single occurrence powerfully conveys Jesus' magnetic presence and the people's readiness to approach Him, underscoring His unique authority and drawing power over the masses. It is not merely a passive gathering but an active, swift movement.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G1998}}` episyntréchō is illuminated by its constituent parts and related terms:
* **`{{G5143}}` tréchō (to run):** The root verb, indicating swift movement.
* **`{{G4936}}` syntréchō (to run together):** A close cognate, lacking the directional emphasis of epí. While syntréchō implies running in company, episyntréchō specifies running *towards* a common destination or person.
* **`{{G4863}}` synagō (to gather together, assemble):** This more general term describes the act of bringing people together, but without the specific emphasis on rapid, active movement inherent in episyntréchō.
* **`{{G4867}}` synathroizō (to gather into a crowd):** Similar to synagō, focusing on the formation of a crowd rather than the dynamic action of individuals converging.
* **`{{G1909}}` epí (upon, to):** This preposition frequently denotes direction towards a goal or person, reinforcing the focused nature of the collective movement.
The concept of a crowd spontaneously gathering around Jesus is a recurring theme in the Gospels, often demonstrating His popularity, the people's need, and His accessibility. `{{G1998}}` episyntréchō captures a particularly vivid instance of this phenomenon.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, `{{G1998}}` episyntréchō in [[Mark 9:15]] carries significant theological weight. It serves as a powerful descriptor of the human response to the divine presence of Jesus.
1. **Jesus' Magnetic Presence:** The fact that a "whole crowd" would "come running together" to Jesus immediately upon seeing Him underscores His unique and compelling authority. It suggests an inherent drawing power that transcends mere curiosity, evoking awe and an urgent desire to be near Him. This spontaneous convergence highlights Jesus as the focal point of all attention and expectation.
2. **Anticipation and Amazement:** The crowd's action is coupled with their being "greatly amazed." This suggests that their running was not out of fear or aggression, but out of wonder and perhaps a recognition of something extraordinary about Jesus, especially after His Transfiguration. It speaks to the awe-inspiring nature of the Son of God breaking into human reality.
3. **Human Response to the Divine:** The verb encapsulates a vital aspect of the Gospel narrative: the eager, often immediate, and collective human response to the manifestation of God's presence in Christ. It portrays the dynamic interaction between the incarnate Lord and those who encountered Him, demonstrating their active pursuit of His presence, teaching, and power.
4. **The Incarnation's Impact:** The scene in Mark 9:15, with the crowd rushing towards Jesus, symbolizes the profound impact of the Incarnation. God's presence among humanity was not something to be ignored or approached casually, but something that evoked an urgent, collective movement towards Him.
### Summary
`{{G1998}}` episyntréchō is a precise and evocative Greek verb, meaning "to hasten together upon" or "to come running together towards." Its etymology highlights a rapid, collective, and directed movement. Though appearing only once in the New Testament, in [[Mark 9:15]], its usage is profoundly significant. It vividly describes the immediate and eager convergence of the crowd upon Jesus as He descended from the mountain of Transfiguration, underscoring His magnetic presence and the awe He inspired. This singular occurrence powerfully illustrates the spontaneous and collective human response to the divine authority and captivating nature of Jesus Christ, serving as a testament to His unique drawing power and the dynamic interaction between the incarnate Lord and those who encountered Him.
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