### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **koinōnós**, represented by `{{G2844}}`, defines a **sharer** or **associate**. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning extends to concepts like being a **companion**, **partaker**, or **partner**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, `{{G2844}}` is used in several key contexts. It can describe a literal business relationship, as when James and John are called **partners** with Simon in their fishing enterprise [[Luke 5:10]]. The term also defines a shared experience, where believers are identified as **partakers** in both sufferings and the resulting consolation [[2 Corinthians 1:7]]. It can even signify a dangerous association, such as having **fellowship** with devils [[1 Corinthians 10:20]] or being a **partaker** with those who shed the blood of the prophets [[Matthew 23:30]]. In a positive spiritual sense, it denotes the bond between believers, as when Paul refers to Titus as his **partner** [[2 Corinthians 8:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of shared experience and association:
* `{{G4904}}` **synergós** (a co-laborer, i.e. coadjutor): This word appears alongside `{{G2844}}` to describe Titus as Paul's "partner and **fellowhelper**" [[2 Corinthians 8:23]], emphasizing a shared work or mission.
* `{{G4850}}` **sympresbýteros** (a co-presbyter): Used by Peter to describe himself as he exhorts the elders, identifying himself as "**also an elder**" and a partaker of Christ's glory [[1 Peter 5:1]], highlighting a shared office and destiny.
* `{{G3804}}` **páthēma** (something undergone, i.e. hardship or pain; subjectively, an emotion or influence): This word is frequently linked to `{{G2844}}` to describe believers as partakers of the **sufferings** of Christ ([[2 Corinthians 1:7]]; [[1 Peter 5:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2844}}` is significant, defining the nature of the believer's relationships.
* **Sharing in the Divine Experience:** Believers are called to be **partakers** of the divine nature [[2 Peter 1:4]]. This partnership also involves being a **partaker** of Christ's sufferings, with the promise of also being a **partaker** of the future **glory** `{{G1391}}` that will be revealed [[1 Peter 5:1]].
* **Conscious Association:** The use of `{{G2844}}` highlights a deliberate choice in association. Believers are warned not to have **fellowship** with **devils** `{{G1140}}` by participating in their sacrifices [[1 Corinthians 10:20]], and they are called to become **companions** with fellow sufferers for the faith [[Hebrews 10:33]].
* **Partnership in the Gospel:** The term defines the practical relationships of ministry. Paul asks Philemon to **receive** `{{G4355}}` Onesimus as a **partner** [[Philemon 1:17]], and James and John's business partnership with Simon transitions to a spiritual one where they will **catch** `{{G2221}}` men [[Luke 5:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2844}}` **koinōnós** is more than a simple term for an associate. It is a word that defines shared identity, experience, and destiny. From the fishing boats of Galilee [[Luke 5:10]] to the spiritual union with God [[2 Peter 1:4]], it conveys a deep sense of participation. It serves as a vital reminder that faith involves a conscious choice of partnership—either as a **partaker** in the sufferings and glory of Christ or as a **companion** in activities that lead away from God.
TRV