### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **períoikos**, represented by `{{G4040}}`, means **neighbour**. Derived from words meaning "housed around," it appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use highlights a community context of shared experience and reaction to divine events.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4040}}` is in the narrative of the birth of John the Baptist. In this context, her **neighbours** and cousins are described as having **heard** how the Lord had shown great mercy to Elizabeth. Their response was to rejoice with her, demonstrating the role of the community in acknowledging and celebrating God's actions [[Luke 1:58]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage illuminate the concept of community and shared experience:
* `{{G4773}}` **syngenḗs** (cousin, kinsman): This term for a relative by blood appears alongside **períoikos** to describe the two groups, kinsfolk and neighbours, who celebrated with Elizabeth [[Luke 1:58]].
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): This verb is central to the passage, as the neighbours and cousins **heard** of the Lord's mercy. Hearing is often a prerequisite for response in scripture, with believers called to be swift to **hear** [[James 1:19]].
* `{{G4796}}` **synchaírō** (to rejoice with): This word captures the communal reaction, showing a shared joy and congratulation. It signifies a sympathy in gladness, as seen when one member of the body is honored and all the members **rejoice with it** [[1 Corinthians 12:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4040}}` is derived entirely from its powerful context.
* **Communal Witness:** The presence of **neighbours** highlights that God's acts of mercy are not merely private events. They are witnessed by the surrounding community, which then has a role in responding to what they have **heard** [[Luke 1:58]].
* **Shared Rejoicing:** The reaction of the **neighbours** is to **rejoice with** Elizabeth. This act of `{{G4796}}` demonstrates a key principle of fellowship: sharing in the joy that comes from God's blessings.
* **Acknowledgement of Mercy:** The neighbours specifically heard that the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` had shown great **mercy** `{{G1656}}`. Their gathering recognizes that the event is a direct result of divine compassion, a theme central to God's character as one who is rich in mercy [[Ephesians 2:4]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4040}}` **períoikos** has only a single occurrence, its context is rich with meaning. It establishes the "neighbour" as more than just someone living nearby; it is a person who participates in the communal life of witness and celebration. The term is intrinsically linked to the community's role in hearing about, acknowledging, and sharing in the joy of God's great mercy.
TRV