a primary particle; properly, at the "same" time, but freely used as a preposition or adverb denoting close association:--also, and, together, with(-al).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **háma**, represented by `{{G260}}`, is a primary particle that properly means at the "same" time. It is used as a preposition or adverb to denote close association. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying concepts such as also, and, together, or withal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G260}}` highlights actions or states that occur concurrently or in close association. In an eschatological context, believers who are alive and remain are to be "caught up **together**" with the dead in Christ [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]]. It is also used to link prayer with other activities, as in the instruction to be "**withal** praying also for us" [[Colossians 4:3]]. In a doctrinal sense, it describes a universal condition, stating that all have "**together** become unprofitable" [[Romans 3:12]]. It can also indicate simultaneous consequence, as in the warning not to "root up also the wheat **with** them" when gathering tares [[Matthew 13:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of concurrent action and association:
* `{{G4862}}` **sýn** (with): This preposition denotes union and companionship. It is often used to reinforce the togetherness implied by `{{G260}}`, as seen when believers are caught up "**together** with them" [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]].
* `{{G726}}` **harpázō** (to seize): This verb describes the action of being "caught up" or seized. Its use alongside `{{G260}}` in [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]] illustrates a powerful, collective event where the saints are gathered **together**.
* `{{G1578}}` **ekklínō** (to deviate): Meaning to go out of the way or shun. In [[Romans 3:12]], it describes the action that leads to the state of being "**together** become unprofitable," showing a shared deviation from righteousness.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G260}}` is significant in several areas:
* **Eschatological Gathering:** The word underscores the corporate nature of the resurrection. Believers will not be raised individually but will "**together**" be caught up to meet the Lord [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]] and will live "**together** with him" [[1 Thessalonians 5:10]].
* **Simultaneous Spiritual and Practical Action:** `{{G260}}` connects spiritual disciplines with practical life. It is used to instruct believers to be "**withal** praying" while an opportunity for the gospel is open [[Colossians 4:3]] and to "**withal** prepare" lodging in expectation of answered prayer [[Philemon 1:22]].
* **Universal State of Humanity:** The term carries significant doctrinal weight in describing the fallen state of mankind. [[Romans 3:12]] uses it to declare that all have "**together** become unprofitable," emphasizing the shared and universal nature of sin's effects.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G260}}` is more than a simple indicator of time. It conveys a deep sense of association, whether in the unified hope of believers [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]], the linking of prayer and action [[Colossians 4:3]], or the shared condition of humanity [[Romans 3:12]]. The word **háma** illustrates how actions, states, and people are bound together in the biblical narrative.
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