### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synkýptō**, represented by `{{G4794}}`, describes being completely overcome or to **bow together**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its definition, derived from σύν and κύπτω, means to stoop altogether, illustrating a state of total physical debilitation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4794}}` is found in the account of a **woman** who had suffered from a spirit of **infirmity** for eighteen years [[Luke 13:11]]. The text states she was **bowed together** and **could** in no wise **lift up** herself, highlighting the severity and totality of her condition. This specific application illustrates a physical state of being completely bent over and unable to stand straight, a direct result of her long-suffering malady.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the passage illuminate the state of being **bowed together**:
* `{{G769}}` **asthéneia** (infirmity): This word denotes feebleness or malady. It describes the source of the woman's condition, a "spirit of **infirmity**" that she had for eighteen years [[Luke 13:11]].
* `{{G1410}}` **dýnamai** (could): This term relates to ability or power. Its use in the negative highlights the woman's complete powerlessness, as she **could** not lift herself up [[Luke 13:11]].
* `{{G352}}` **anakýptō** (lift up): As the direct opposite of being bowed over, this word means to unbend or rise. The woman's inability to **lift up** herself emphasizes the totality of her condition described by `{{G4794}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4794}}` comes from its vivid portrayal of human suffering and bondage.
* **A Picture of Bondage:** The state of being **bowed together** serves as a powerful physical metaphor for bondage. The narrative links her condition to Satan having bound her for eighteen **years** [[Luke 13:16]], making `{{G4794}}` a depiction of the physical effects of spiritual oppression.
* **Complete Helplessness:** This word encapsulates a state of utter helplessness. The woman was completely overcome by her ailment and **could** in no wise **lift up** herself [[Luke 13:11]]. This highlights a condition from which one cannot escape by their own power, pointing to the need for external, divine intervention.
* **The Weight of Infirmity:** `{{G4794}}` describes the physical manifestation of a "spirit of **infirmity**" `{{G769}}` [[Luke 13:11]]. It shows how spiritual and physical realities can be intertwined, with a long-term malady physically weighing a person down and preventing them from standing upright.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4794}}` **synkýptō**, while used only once, provides a uniquely vivid image of being completely overcome. It moves beyond a simple description of poor posture to signify total physical subjugation by a long-term **infirmity**. This term effectively captures the woman's profound state of helplessness and bondage, illustrating a condition so severe that she was utterly unable to stand straight on her own.
TRV