### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synkleíō**, represented by `{{G4788}}`, means to shut together, include, or figuratively embrace in a common subjection. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition carries both a literal sense of enclosing something physically, as with a net, and a profound figurative sense of being concluded or shut up under a specific condition or authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4788}}` is applied in both literal and theological contexts. The literal meaning is vividly illustrated when the disciples **inclosed** a great multitude of fishes in their net, so many that the net began to break [[Luke 5:6]]. Figuratively, the term is used to describe a universal state. The scripture has **concluded** all under sin [[Galatians 3:22]], and humanity was **shut up** under the law until faith was revealed [[Galatians 3:23]]. In a similar vein, God has **concluded** all in unbelief, demonstrating a shared condition [[Romans 11:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4788}}` in its various contexts:
* `{{G1350}}` **díktyon** (a seine (for fishing):--net): This word is used for the physical object that performs the action of "inclosing." The great catch of fish was enclosed in a **net** that began to break [[Luke 5:6]].
* `{{G5432}}` **phrouréō** (to hem in, protect): This term is used in parallel with "shut up" to describe a state of being guarded. Before faith, people were **kept** under the law [[Galatians 3:23]].
* `{{G543}}` **apeítheia** (disbelief (obstinate and rebellious)): This defines the state into which God has "concluded" all people. This act of being shut up in **unbelief** serves a divine purpose [[Romans 11:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4788}}` is significant, particularly in the writings of Paul. It is used to build a foundational argument for salvation by faith.
* **Universal Condition of Sin:** The declaration that Scripture has **concluded** all under sin [[Galatians 3:22]] establishes that no one is righteous by their own merit, creating the necessity for a savior.
* **The Law as a Custodian:** The idea of being **shut up** under the law [[Galatians 3:23]] portrays the law's role not as a means of salvation, but as a temporary measure to guard humanity until faith in Christ was revealed `{{G601}}`.
* **Mercy as the Ultimate Goal:** The most profound use of the term reveals God's ultimate plan. God has **concluded** everyone in unbelief `{{G543}}` for the express purpose that He might have mercy `{{G1653}}` upon all [[Romans 11:32]]. The enclosure is not a final judgment but a precursor to grace.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4788}}` is a powerful word that bridges the physical and the spiritual. From the literal act of enclosing fish in a net to the theological concept of all humanity being shut up under sin and the law, it consistently points to a state of confinement. However, scripture reveals that this divine "shutting up" is not for condemnation, but to demonstrate a universal need and pave the way for God's universal offer of mercy through faith.
TRV