### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **koinōnéō**, represented by `{{G2841}}`, is a verb meaning **to share with others**. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. The definition, "from κοινωνός; to share with others (objectively or subjectively):--communicate, distribute, be partaker," indicates a broad concept that encompasses sharing in experiences, providing material support, and participating in the consequences of actions, whether good or evil.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2841}}` is used in several key contexts. It describes the act of **partaking** in a shared nature or experience, such as when believers are called to **rejoice** as **partakers** of Christ's **sufferings** [[1 Peter 4:13]] or when Christ himself became a **partaker** of **flesh** and **blood** [[Hebrews 2:14]]. The term also functions as a command for tangible support within the community, such as **distributing** to the **necessity** of the **saints** [[Romans 12:13]] and for one who is **taught** in the **word** to **communicate** with their teacher in all **good things** [[Galatians 6:6]]. Conversely, it carries a strong warning against negative association, urging believers not to be a **partaker** of other men's **sins** [[1 Timothy 5:22]] or **evil deeds** [[2 John 1:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of sharing and participation:
* `{{G3804}}` **páthēma** (suffering): This word defines the hardship or pain that believers are called to share with Christ. Believers are to rejoice in being **partakers** of Christ's **sufferings** [[1 Peter 4:13]].
* `{{G5532}}` **chreía** (necessity, need): This term identifies the specific lack or requirement that prompts the act of sharing. Believers are instructed in **distributing** to the **necessity** of the **saints** [[Romans 12:13]].
* `{{G1394}}` **dósis** (giving): This word for **a giving** is used in the context of financial partnership, highlighting the tangible nature of "communicating." The Philippian church was the only one to share with Paul concerning **giving** and receiving [[Philippians 4:15]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): This word defines the negative element one must avoid sharing in. Believers are warned not to be a **partaker** of other men's **sins** [[1 Timothy 5:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2841}}` is significant, connecting spiritual union with practical action.
* **Shared Identity:** The word establishes a profound connection between Christ and believers. By becoming a **partaker** of **flesh** and **blood**, Christ identified with humanity [[Hebrews 2:14]]. In turn, believers are called to be **partakers** of His **sufferings**, which leads to rejoicing in His **glory** [[1 Peter 4:13]].
* **Mutual Support and Fellowship:** `{{G2841}}` underscores the responsibility of believers to support one another. This includes **distributing** to the material **necessity** of the **saints** [[Romans 12:13]] and financially supporting those who teach the **word** [[Galatians 6:6]]. This mutual support extends between different communities, as when the **Gentiles**, having been made **partakers** of spiritual things, had a duty to **minister** to the Jewish believers in **carnal things** [[Romans 15:27]].
* **Spiritual Purity and Accountability:** The term carries a stern warning about the dangers of association. Believers are commanded not to **be partaker** in the **sins** of others [[1 Timothy 5:22]] or to bid "God speed" to those with **evil deeds**, lest they become a **partaker** in them [[2 John 1:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2841}}` moves beyond a simple notion of sharing to describe a deep, multifaceted participation. It encompasses the believer's shared identity with Christ in both his humanity and his **sufferings**, the tangible and financial support that binds the **church** together, and the critical need for moral discernment to avoid partaking in **sin**. The word powerfully illustrates how spiritual fellowship is demonstrated through concrete actions of giving, sharing, and holy living.
TRV