### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synkáthēmai**, represented by `{{G4775}}`, is formed from σύν (with) and κάθημαι (to sit), literally meaning to **sit with** or to seat oneself in company with another. It is a specific term that appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, yet its usage marks pivotal moments of association and reaction within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G4775}}` illustrate its meaning in different social contexts. In [[Mark 14:54]], Peter, having followed Jesus from afar into the high priest's palace, **sat with** the servants to warm himself by the fire. Here, the word depicts an attempt to blend in and observe from a distance. In contrast, [[Acts 26:30]] describes a formal assembly where the king, governor, Bernice, and others who **sat with** them all rose up after hearing Paul's defense, indicating a collective response from an official audience.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context surrounding the act of sitting with a group:
* `{{G5257}}` **hypērétēs** (servant): This identifies the company Peter chose to **sit with** in the high priest's palace, highlighting his position among subordinates [[Mark 14:54]].
* `{{G2232}}` **hēgemṓn** (governor): This word denotes the high-status official who was part of the seated assembly listening to Paul, establishing the formal nature of the gathering [[Acts 26:30]].
* `{{G3326}}` **metá** (with): Used in [[Mark 14:54]], this preposition emphasizes the accompaniment and association inherent in the act of sitting **with** others.
* `{{G450}}` **anístēmi** (to stand up): This action, taken by the king and those who **sat with** him, shows the conclusion of the assembly and their reaction to what they had heard [[Acts 26:30]].
### Theological Significance
While not a major theological term, the significance of `{{G4775}}` lies in the narrative context of association and presence.
* **Company and Allegiance:** The act of sitting with a particular group carries weight. Peter sits **with** the servants of the high priest, physically aligning himself with the opposition just before his denial [[Mark 14:54]].
* **Official Witness:** In the account of Paul's defense, those who **sat with** the king and governor form the official body of witnesses to his testimony. Their presence validates the gravity of the event [[Acts 26:30]].
* **A Posture of Reaction:** In both instances, the act of sitting precedes a significant reaction—Peter's denial and the rulers' rising. The shared posture of the group sets the stage for a subsequent, decisive action.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4775}}` is a precise verb that, despite its infrequent use, plays a key role in its scenes. It moves beyond the simple act of being seated to define a person's company and context. Whether it is Peter associating with servants in a moment of crisis or rulers gathered for a formal hearing, to **sit with** a group is to be present and identified with them at a critical juncture in the narrative.
TRV