### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sygkoinōnós**, represented by `{{G4791}}`, means **a co-participant**. Derived from σύν (meaning with) and κοινωνός (a partner), it denotes a deep, shared involvement with another. The term appears **6 times** across **4 unique verses**, illustrating a partnership in both spiritual blessings and hardships.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{G4791}}` describes a profound unity among believers. In Revelation, John identifies himself as a **companion** `{{G4791}}` with his fellow believers in **tribulation** `{{G2347}}`, the **kingdom** `{{G932}}`, and the **patience** `{{G5281}}` of Jesus Christ [[Revelation 1:9]]. Paul uses the term to affirm that the Philippians are **partakers** `{{G4791}}` of his **grace** `{{G5485}}` through their shared involvement in the **defence** `{{G627}}` and **confirmation** `{{G951}}` of the **gospel** `{{G2098}}` [[Philippians 1:7]]. This partnership extends to spiritual inheritance, as Gentile believers are described as being "graffed in" `{{G1461}}` to become **partakers** `{{G4791}}` of the **root** `{{G4491}}` and **fatness** `{{G4096}}` of the **olive tree** `{{G1636}}` [[Romans 11:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the nature of this shared participation:
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (pressure (literally or figuratively):--afflicted(-tion), anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble): This is a key experience shared by those who are a **companion** `{{G4791}}` in Christ [[Revelation 1:9]].
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (a good message, i.e. the gospel:--gospel): Believers are **partakers** `{{G4791}}` not just of suffering, but of the defense and confirmation of the gospel ([[Philippians 1:7]], [[1 Corinthians 9:23]]).
* `{{G4491}}` **rhíza** (a "root" (literally or figuratively):--root): This signifies the source of spiritual life and nourishment that believers become **partakers** `{{G4791}}` of through faith [[Romans 11:17]].
* `{{G5485}}` **cháris** (graciousness... especially the divine influence upon the heart): The divine grace of God is a gift that believers are **partakers** `{{G4791}}` of together, uniting them in a common blessing [[Philippians 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4791}}` is rooted in the shared life of the believer.
* **Partnership in Suffering:** The word establishes that the Christian life involves being a **companion** `{{G4791}}` in **tribulation** `{{G2347}}` and **bonds** `{{G1199}}`. This shared hardship is a mark of fellowship with both Christ and other believers ([[Revelation 1:9]], [[Philippians 1:7]]).
* **Co-participation in the Gospel:** Believers are **partakers** `{{G4791}}` in the work of the **gospel** `{{G2098}}`. This includes sharing in its defense, its confirmation, and the **grace** `{{G5485}}` that it brings [[Philippians 1:7]].
* **Shared Spiritual Inheritance:** `{{G4791}}` illustrates the inclusion of all believers into God's covenant promises. By being "graffed in" `{{G1461}}`, they become **partakers** `{{G4791}}` of the same spiritual **root** `{{G4491}}`, sharing in its life and blessings [[Romans 11:17]].
### Summary
In summary, **sygkoinōnós** `{{G4791}}` moves beyond simple companionship to describe a vital, active partnership. It conveys the reality that believers are united as **co-participants** in the sufferings, mission, and divine inheritance found in Jesus Christ. The term underscores the deep fellowship that connects believers to one another through their shared experience of the gospel.
TRV