### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **panḗgyris**, represented by `{{G3831}}`, describes a **mass-meeting** or, figuratively, a **universal companionship**. Derived from πᾶς and a derivative of ἀγορά, it is used in scripture to refer to a **general assembly**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G3831}}` is found in [[Hebrews 12:23]], where it depicts a grand, heavenly gathering. In this passage, the "**general assembly**" is described in direct conjunction with the "**church** of the **firstborn**" (`{{G1577}}`, `{{G4416}}`). This assembly is not on earth, but consists of those whose names are "**written** in **heaven**" (`{{G583}}`, `{{G3772}}`). The context places this magnificent meeting in the presence of "**God** the **Judge** of all" and "**the spirits of just men made perfect**" (`{{G2316}}`, `{{G2923}}`, `{{G4151}}`, `{{G1342}}`, `{{G5048}}`).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single appearance in [[Hebrews 12:23]] help clarify the nature of this assembly:
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): Defined as "a religious congregation," this word is used in parallel with `{{G3831}}` to specify the identity of the gathering. It is elsewhere described as "the body" of Christ [[Colossians 1:18]].
* `{{G4416}}` **prōtótokos** (firstborn): This term identifies the members of the assembly as the "**firstborn**," a title of honor. Christ is called the "**firstborn** from the dead" [[Colossians 1:18]] and the "**firstborn** among many brethren" [[Romans 8:29]].
* `{{G583}}` **apográphō** (written): Meaning to "enrol," this word indicates that the members of the assembly are officially registered in heaven. The same word is used to describe the decree that the world should be "taxed" or enrolled [[Luke 2:1]].
* `{{G3772}}` **ouranós** (heaven): This specifies the location of the general assembly as the "abode of God" [[Matthew 5:16]]. It is the place where God's will is done [[Matthew 6:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3831}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful image of the ultimate gathering of saints.
* **A Celestial Celebration:** The word signifies a "mass-meeting" not of men on earth, but of the redeemed in heaven, fulfilling the figurative meaning of "universal companionship."
* **The Assembly of the Redeemed:** It is explicitly identified as the "**church** of the **firstborn**" [[Hebrews 12:23]], a body of believers who hold a special status, whose names are secured and "**written** in **heaven**" [[Hebrews 12:23]].
* **The Final Destination:** The context of this assembly is before "**God** the **Judge** of all," alongside the "**spirits of just men made perfect**" [[Hebrews 12:23]], portraying the glorious end-state for believers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3831}}` is a rare but profound term. Its single biblical use provides a unique glimpse into the final, joyous assembly of the faithful. Though appearing just once, **panḗgyris** encapsulates the hope of a "universal companionship" in **heaven** `{{G3772}}`, a gathering of the **church** `{{G1577}}` of the **firstborn** `{{G4416}}` who are enrolled before God Himself.
TRV