### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb κολλάω (kolláō, `{{G2853}}`) fundamentally conveys the idea of "gluing," "adhering," or "sticking together." Derived from a root signifying "glue," its primary literal sense is to bind or fasten firmly with an adhesive. Transferred to a figurative sense, it describes a strong, intimate union or attachment. This can manifest passively or reflexively, indicating that something or someone "sticks to," "cleaves to," or "joins oneself to" another. The semantic range thus extends from literal physical adhesion to profound relational, social, or ethical commitment. It implies a bond that is not superficial but deep, often involving a degree of identification or shared reality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
κολλάω appears in the New Testament, illustrating its versatile application:
* In [[Acts 5:13]], the word describes the reluctance of others to "join" the apostles, signifying a social and spiritual separation due to awe and fear. This context highlights a voluntary association or disassociation within a community.
* [[Acts 8:29]] employs κολλάω in a more literal sense, with the Spirit instructing Philip to "join himself" to the Ethiopian eunuch's chariot. Here, it denotes close physical proximity for the purpose of engagement.
* The desire for fellowship is evident in [[Acts 9:26]], where Saul attempts to "join the disciples" in Jerusalem. This illustrates the longing for acceptance and integration into the Christian community.
* [[Acts 10:28]] reveals cultural and religious barriers, as Peter states it is unlawful for a Jew to "join with" or associate closely with a Gentile. This usage underscores the deep-seated divisions that the Gospel was beginning to transcend.
* A profound ethical and spiritual application is found in [[Romans 12:9]], where believers are exhorted to "cling to what is good" (τὸ ἀγαθόν). This is not a casual preference but a command for deep, unwavering adherence to righteousness and virtue, a commitment of one's entire being.
* Perhaps the most striking and cautionary use is in [[1 Corinthians 6:16]], where Paul warns that "he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her." This verse powerfully illustrates the holistic, transformative nature of "joining," whether in a holy or unholy union. It emphasizes that such an act creates a profound, shared reality, impacting one's very being.
* In [[Luke 15:15]], the prodigal son "joined himself" to a citizen of that country, indicating a desperate act of subservience and dependency for survival.
Across these contexts, κολλάω consistently points to a significant, often transformative, act of unification or adherence.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "joining" or "cleaving" is deeply rooted in biblical thought.
* **Hebrew Equivalent:** The most prominent Old Testament counterpart to κολλάω is the Hebrew verb דָּבַק (dāḇaq, `{{H1692}}`), which similarly means "to cling," "to cleave," or "to stick." This word is famously used in [[Genesis 2:24]] regarding a man "cleaving to his wife," establishing the foundational principle of marital union as a profound, indivisible bond. The Septuagint often translates דָּבַק with κολλάω, demonstrating a clear conceptual continuity.
* **Synonyms/Antonyms:** While κολλάω emphasizes intimate adhesion, other Greek words convey aspects of gathering or association, such as συνάγω (synagō, `{{G4922}}`, "to gather together") or συνίστημι (synistēmi, `{{G4887}}`, "to stand with, commend"). Its antonyms would include words denoting separation or division, such as χωρίζω (chōrizō, `{{G5563}}`, "to separate") or διαιρέω (diaireō, `{{G1247}}`, "to divide").
* **Thematic Links:** The word κολλάω is intrinsically linked to theological themes of covenant, fellowship, union, commitment, loyalty, and, conversely, the dangers of unholy alliances and impurity.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κολλάω extends beyond mere physical or social connection to encompass profound spiritual realities.
* **Holistic Union:** The use of κολλάω in [[1 Corinthians 6:16]] regarding union with a prostitute underscores the biblical understanding of human beings as integrated wholes (body, soul, spirit). "Cleaving" is not merely an external act but effects a deep, internal transformation, creating a new "one flesh" reality. This principle, drawn from the Genesis account of marriage, highlights the sacredness and totality of true union.
* **Ethical Commitment:** The exhortation in [[Romans 12:9]] to "cling to what is good" elevates κολλάω to a moral and spiritual imperative. It calls believers to an unwavering, wholehearted devotion to righteousness, actively embracing and aligning themselves with God's will and character. This is a commitment that shapes one's identity and actions.
* **Fellowship and Community:** The instances in Acts concerning "joining" the disciples or avoiding association with Gentiles reflect the early church's understanding of community and the boundaries of fellowship. While the Gospel ultimately breaks down walls of division, the concept of "cleaving" still implies a deliberate choice of association, particularly with those who share faith in Christ.
* **The Analogy for Union with Christ:** While κολλάω is not directly used to describe the believer's union with Christ in the New Testament (other terms like "in Christ" are more common), the underlying concept of "cleaving" to the Lord is a vital Old Testament theme (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 10:20]]). The profound, indissoluble bond implied by κολλάω provides a powerful conceptual framework for understanding the believer's spiritual identification and intimate relationship with Christ. Just as a man cleaves to his wife, so too are believers called to cleave to the Lord.
### Summary
The Greek word κολλάω (kolláō, `{{G2853}}`) denotes a strong, adhesive bond, whether literal or figurative. Its core meaning of "gluing" or "sticking" expands to encompass deep relational, social, and ethical adherence. In the New Testament, it describes acts of joining communities, seeking proximity, and, most significantly, the profound, transformative union that occurs when one "cleaves" to another. From the intimate "one flesh" reality in [[1 Corinthians 6:16]] to the ethical imperative to "cling to what is good" in [[Romans 12:9]], κολλάω consistently highlights a commitment that is not superficial but deeply integrated into one's being. Rooted in the Old Testament concept of דָּבַק (dāḇaq, `{{H1692}}`), it underscores the biblical emphasis on wholehearted commitment, whether in marriage, fellowship, or one's unwavering devotion to God and His righteousness.
TRV