### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συγκωμίζω (synkomízō, `{{G4792}}`) is a compound word formed from the prefix σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb κομίζω (komízō, `{{G2892}}`), which means "to carry," "to bring," or "to convey." Therefore, the core meaning of συγκωμίζω is "to carry together," "to bring together," or "to convey in company with others." The prefix σύν adds a crucial nuance of shared action, collaboration, or collective presence to the simple act of carrying. Its semantic range is quite narrow, primarily denoting the physical act of transport performed by multiple individuals or with the assistance/presence of others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Συγκωμίζω appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 8:2]]**: "And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him."
In this sole occurrence, the word describes the solemn act of "devout men" (εὐλαβεῖς ἄνδρες) who took responsibility for the body of Stephen after his martyrdom. The use of συγκωμίζω here emphasizes the communal nature of this act. It was not a solitary individual but a group of believers who collectively "carried together" Stephen's body for burial. The context is one of profound grief and solidarity in the face of violent persecution. The act is one of reverence and respect for the deceased, performed by a community united in their faith and sorrow. This particular verb underscores the shared burden and the collective demonstration of piety and love for their fallen brother.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words convey the general idea of carrying or bearing, but συγκωμίζω stands out due to its emphasis on the collective or communal aspect.
* **κομίζω (komízō)** `{{G2892}}`: The root verb, meaning "to carry," "to bring," or "to receive." While κομίζω can describe any act of carrying, συγκωμίζω specifically adds the dimension of "togetherness."
* **σύν (syn)** `{{G4862}}`: The prefix itself, which is widely used in compound words to denote association, union, or accompaniment. Its presence in συγκωμίζω is key to its unique meaning.
* **αἴρω (airō)** `{{G142}}`: A common verb meaning "to lift," "to take up," or "to carry." It is more general and does not inherently imply a communal effort.
* **βαστάζω (bastazō)** `{{G941}}`: To "bear," "carry," or "take up," often implying the carrying of a burden or responsibility. Like αἴρω, it does not inherently convey the "together" aspect.
* **φέρω (pherō)** `{{G5342}}`: Another common verb for "to bear," "to carry," or "to bring."
The distinctiveness of συγκωμίζω lies in its precise articulation of a shared act of carrying, highlighting the solidarity and collective effort of those involved.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, συγκωμίζω in [[Acts 8:2]] carries significant theological weight. The act of "carrying together" Stephen's body for burial speaks volumes about the early Christian community:
1. **Communal Solidarity:** In a time of intense persecution following Stephen's martyrdom, the "devout men" risked their own safety to honor their brother. Their collective action, signified by συγκωμίζω, demonstrates profound solidarity and commitment within the nascent church. It was an act of courage and defiance against the forces that sought to suppress the Christian faith.
2. **Reverence for the Deceased:** The careful and communal handling of Stephen's body for burial reflects a deep reverence for human life, even after death. This practice aligns with Jewish burial customs and prefigures the Christian belief in the sanctity of the body and the hope of resurrection. It stands in stark contrast to the violent and contemptuous manner of Stephen's stoning.
3. **Expression of Grief and Love:** The act of carrying the body was accompanied by "great lamentation." This collective expression of sorrow, facilitated by the shared act of burial, underscores the deep bonds of love and fellowship that characterized the early believers. It was a tangible manifestation of their shared grief and their care for one another.
4. **Quiet Witness:** In a tumultuous period, this quiet, reverent act of communal burial served as a powerful, albeit unspoken, witness to their faith and their humanity, even amidst widespread hostility.
### Summary
Συγκωμίζω (`{{G4792}}`) is a rare but potent Greek verb meaning "to carry together" or "to convey in company with others." Its singular appearance in [[Acts 8:2]] describes the poignant act of "devout men" collectively carrying Stephen's body for burial after his martyrdom. This specific usage highlights the communal solidarity, deep reverence for the deceased, and profound love and grief shared within the early Christian community. Even as a hapax legomenon, συγκωμίζω powerfully conveys the collective commitment and compassionate action of believers in the face of adversity, underscoring the vital role of community in faith and practice.
TRV