dative case (adverb) of a compound of πᾶς and πλῆθος; in full multitude, i.e. concertedly or simultaneously:--all at once.
Transliteration:pamplētheí
Pronunciation:pam-play-thi'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb G3826 (παμπληθεί, transliterated *pamplētheí*) is a compound word derived from `{{G3956}}` (πᾶς, *pas*), meaning "all" or "every," and `{{G4128}}` (πλῆθος, *plēthos*), meaning "multitude" or "great number." Literally, it signifies "in full multitude" or "with the entire multitude." As an adverb, its semantic range conveys the idea of an action performed "all at once," "concertedly," or "simultaneously" by a large group. It emphasizes the unanimous and overwhelming nature of a collective action, indicating that the entirety of a gathered crowd participated in a particular utterance or deed. This is distinct from a mere large number; it speaks to the unified will and action of the whole assembly.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G3826 (παμπληθεί) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Luke 23:18]]. The context is the trial of Jesus before Pilate, where Pilate attempts to release Jesus according to the custom of releasing a prisoner at the Passover.
[[Luke 23:18]] states: "But they cried out *all at once*, saying, 'Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas!'"
Here, παμπληθεί describes the unified and overwhelming cry of the crowd. It is not merely that a multitude cried out, but that the entire multitude cried out *as one*. This singular, concerted voice of the people demonstrates a powerful, unanimous rejection of Jesus and a fervent demand for Barabbas. The adverb underscores the collective will of the crowd, highlighting their complete agreement and simultaneous action in demanding Jesus's crucifixion. This moment is critical, as it portrays the popular, corporate rejection of the Messiah, driven by an almost singular, unified impulse.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding G3826 is enhanced by examining its constituent parts and related terms:
* `{{G3956}}` (πᾶς, *pas*): "all," "every." This component emphasizes the totality and universality of the action within the group.
* `{{G4128}}` (πλῆθος, *plēthos*): "multitude," "great number." This denotes the sheer quantity of people involved.
* `{{G3667}}` (ὁμοθυμαδόν, *homothymadon*): "with one accord," "unanimously." While similar in conveying unity, ὁμοθυμαδόν often emphasizes a unity of mind or spirit, particularly in the book of Acts concerning the early church (e.g., [[Acts 1:14]], [[Acts 2:46]]). παμπληθεί, by contrast, focuses more on the *collective action* of the *entire multitude* performing something *simultaneously*. In [[Luke 23:18]], the unity is one of a shared, hostile demand rather than spiritual accord.
* `{{G3661}}` (ὁμοῦ, *homou*): "together," "at the same place/time." This word is more general and does not carry the same emphasis on the *entirety* of the multitude.
The concept conveyed by G3826 is one of overwhelming popular demand, a corporate voice, and a decisive, unified action by a large group.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of G3826 in [[Luke 23:18]] carries profound theological weight. It signifies the corporate rejection of Jesus by the very people He came to save. The phrase "all at once" is not merely a descriptive detail; it underscores the comprehensive nature of this rejection. It was not a fragmented protest or the will of a few agitators, but the unified voice of the assembled multitude that demanded Jesus's death. This emphasizes:
* **Human Culpability:** While God's sovereign plan was unfolding, παμπληθεί highlights the active, unanimous participation of humanity in the crucifixion. It underscores the depth of human sin and rebellion against God's Messiah.
* **The Power of a Misguided Crowd:** It serves as a stark warning about the danger of collective delusion and the ease with which a multitude can be swayed to evil, even against truth and justice. The "voice of the people" is not always the "voice of God."
* **Universal Rejection:** In a broader theological sense, this single, unified cry can be seen as emblematic of humanity's corporate rejection of God's redemptive offer in Christ, necessitating divine intervention for salvation.
### Summary
G3826 (παμπληθεί) is a powerful Greek adverb meaning "all at once" or "in full multitude," emphasizing the concerted and simultaneous action of an entire assembled group. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Luke 23:18]] profoundly describes the unified and overwhelming demand of the crowd for Jesus's crucifixion. This word highlights the corporate responsibility of humanity in the rejection of Christ, serving as a solemn reminder of the pervasive nature of sin and the dangerous potential of a misguided collective will. Though rare, its impact in this pivotal moment of salvation history is immense, underscoring the unanimous human rejection of the Lord's Anointed.
TRV