### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G4786 (συγκεράννυμι, *synkeránnymi*) is a compound word formed from σύν (`{{G4862}}`, "with," "together") and κεράννυμι (`{{G2767}}`, "to mix," "to pour out," especially liquids). The core meaning thus denotes the act of "mixing together," "blending," or "commingling" various elements into a unified whole. This often implies a process of tempering or harmonizing, where different components are combined in such a way as to achieve a desired balance or consistency. Figuratively, it extends to the idea of "combining," "assimilating," or "integrating" disparate parts or concepts. The essence is not merely juxtaposition, but a true intermingling that results in a new, often improved or functional, compound.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word συγκεράννυμι appears twice in the New Testament, each instance offering profound theological insight:
1. **[[1 Corinthians 12:24]]**: In the Apostle Paul's discourse on the spiritual gifts and the unity of the body of Christ, he states, "But God has so tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to that part which lacked" (ESV). Here, the verb describes God's divine action in composing the church. The context is the diversity of members within the single body, where some parts are naturally less "honorable" or visible (e.g., internal organs) than others. God, in His infinite wisdom, has "tempered" or "mixed together" the body in such a way that these less esteemed parts receive greater honor, ensuring that there is no division within the body. This "tempering" speaks to a deliberate, harmonious composition designed to promote mutual care and prevent schism, highlighting God's sovereign and benevolent design for His people.
2. **[[Hebrews 4:2]]**: The author of Hebrews writes concerning the Israelites who failed to enter God's rest, explaining, "For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because it was not mixed with faith by those who heard" (ESV). In this context, συγκεράννυμι describes the necessary interaction between the divine message (the "good news" or "word of hearing") and the human recipient. The message, though true and powerful in itself, remained inert and ineffectual for them because it was not "mixed with faith." This implies that the word must be assimilated, internalized, and integrated by an active response of faith from the hearer. Without this "mixing," the word remains an external sound rather than a transformative power within the heart.
### Related Words & Concepts
The components of συγκεράννυμι are significant: σύν (`{{G4862}}`) emphasizes the "togetherness" or "union," while κεράννυμι (`{{G2767}}`) conveys the act of mixing, often with a view to creating a balanced or harmonious blend (as in mixing wine with water).
Conceptually, συγκεράννυμι relates to:
* **Unity and Harmony**: It stands in contrast to διαίρεσις (`{{G1244}}`, division) or σχίσμα (`{{G4978}}`, schism), emphasizing integration and cohesion.
* **Assimilation and Integration**: Particularly in Hebrews, it speaks to the process by which external truth becomes internal reality, akin to πίστις (`{{G4102}}`, faith) as the catalyst for such integration.
* **Divine Wisdom and Design**: In 1 Corinthians, it underscores God's purposeful and intelligent composition of His creation, particularly the church, for optimal functioning and mutual honor.
* **Interdependence**: The idea of parts being "tempered together" implies a mutual reliance and necessary connection among diverse components.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of συγκεράννυμι is profound, touching upon both divine action and human responsibility.
In **[[1 Corinthians 12:24]]**, it reveals God as the master architect who "tempers" the diverse members of the church. This divine act ensures that every part, regardless of its perceived status or visibility, is honored and contributes to the overall health and functionality of the body. It underscores the truth that Christian unity is not merely a human endeavor but a divinely ordained reality, rooted in God's wise and loving composition. This "tempering" prevents division (σχίσμα), promotes mutual care, and ensures that the church reflects the glory of God through its harmonious interdependence. It speaks to a profound theological truth: God delights in diversity, but He orchestrates it for unity and mutual edification.
In **[[Hebrews 4:2]]**, the word highlights the critical role of human faith in the reception of divine revelation. The "mixing" of the word with faith is not an optional additive but an essential condition for spiritual benefit. The word of God, though inherently powerful, does not automatically transform apart from a receptive heart that engages with it through faith. This emphasizes human accountability in responding to God's truth. The failure to "mix" the message with faith results in spiritual barrenness and a failure to enter into God's promised rest. It underscores the dynamic, interactive nature of the relationship between divine grace and human response.
### Summary
G4786 (συγκεράννυμι, *synkeránnymi*) fundamentally means "to mix together," "to temper," or "to assimilate." Its two New Testament occurrences offer complementary insights into divine action and human response. In **[[1 Corinthians 12:24]]**, it portrays God's wise and intentional "tempering" of the church, ensuring unity, mutual honor, and the prevention of division among its diverse members. This speaks to the divine orchestration of the body of Christ. In **[[Hebrews 4:2]]**, it underscores the crucial necessity of human faith in "mixing with" or assimilating the divine message. Without this active engagement of faith, the word of God, though preached, remains ineffective and yields no spiritual benefit. Together, these uses illuminate the profound truth of God's sovereign design for unity and the indispensable role of faith in receiving and benefiting from His eternal word.
TRV