The Greek adverb pántothen, represented by G3840, means "from (i.e. on) all sides" or "round about". Though it appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, its use in scripture signifies a state of being completely and totally surrounded.
In its biblical occurrences, G3840 is used to describe two very different kinds of encirclement. First, it details the sacred construction of the Ark of the Covenant, which was "overlaid round about with gold" Hebrews 9:4, indicating a seamless and total covering. Second, it is used in a prophecy of a future siege, where enemies will "keep thee in on every side" Luke 19:43, conveying the inescapable nature of the attack.
Several related words help to define the concept of being surrounded from all sides:
- G4028 perikalýptō (to cover all around, i.e. entirely): This word works directly with G3840 to describe how the ark was overlaid round about with gold Hebrews 9:4.
- G4033 perikyklóō (to encircle all around, i.e. blockade completely): Used in the context of a siege, this term reinforces the idea of a military blockade, to compass someone round Luke 19:43.
- G4016 peribállō (to throw all around, i.e. invest): In the same prophecy, this word describes the action of enemies who will cast a trench about their target Luke 19:43.
- G5553 chrysíon (a golden article, i.e. gold plating, ornament, or coin): This specifies the precious material, gold, that was used to cover the Ark of the Covenant on every side Hebrews 9:4.
The significance of G3840 is found in its ability to express a sense of totality in two distinct ways:
- Complete Consecration: The description of the Ark being overlaid "round about" with gold Hebrews 9:4 highlights its total dedication and sanctity. The complete covering signifies an object entirely set apart and holy.
- Total Encirclement: In the prophecy against a city, being kept in "on every side" Luke 19:43 illustrates the absolute nature of a hostile siege. It signifies a state of being completely trapped, without any avenue of escape.
In summary, G3840 is a precise adverb that conveys the idea of completeness from all directions. Though used infrequently, it powerfully illustrates concepts of total coverage, whether for sacred ornamentation as with the Ark of the Covenant, or for hostile containment as in a military siege. It shows how being surrounded can signify both divine honor and inescapable judgment.
TRV