The Greek word synkyría, represented by G4795, denotes a concurrence or accident. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. The term is derived from Greek words meaning to happen together, conveying the idea of a chance encounter from a human perspective.
The sole use of G4795 is in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus describes a scenario where "by chance there came down a certain priest that way" Luke 10:31. This seemingly random meeting on the road is not the focus, but rather the catalyst for the priest's subsequent action. After seeing the wounded man, the priest "passed by on the other side" Luke 10:31, turning what could be seen as a chance event into a deliberate moral choice.
Several other words in this passage provide critical context for the event:
- G2597 katabaínō (to descend): This word, meaning to come down, describes the priest's physical movement along the way Luke 10:31. It is also used to describe divine actions, such as the Lord himself descending from heaven 1 Thessalonians 4:16 or perfect gifts coming down from the Father James 1:17.
- G2409 hiereús (priest): The individual who encounters the wounded man is a priest Luke 10:31. Priests hold a significant role throughout scripture, from offering daily sacrifices Hebrews 10:11 to the fulfillment of this role in believers, who are made kings and priests unto God Revelation 1:6.
- G3598 hodós (way): The setting for this encounter is a road or way Luke 10:31. Biblically, this word often carries a deeper meaning, representing the path of life or destruction Matthew 7:14 and is even used by Jesus to describe himself as "the way, the truth, and the life" John 14:6.
- G492 antiparérchomai (pass by on the other side): This specific action highlights the priest's intentional avoidance. It appears only in this parable, used to describe both the priest and the Levite who passed by on the other side (Luke 10:31, Luke 10:32).
The theological weight of G4795 comes from its rarity and its context. While it describes a chance event, the broader scriptural narrative emphasizes divine sovereignty.
- Human Perspective: The word chance frames the event from the priest's point of view, as an unplanned meeting. This contrasts with the scriptural affirmation that all things work together for good according to God's purpose Romans 8:28.
- Providential Opportunity: The "chance" encounter serves as a divinely permitted test of character. God's foreknowledge Romans 8:29 and purpose are not negated by what appears random to humans. The event provides a moral opportunity for the priest to act.
- Emphasis on Purpose: The Bible's minimal use of a word for random chance highlights its focus on God's overarching plan. God's ways are described as "just and true" Revelation 15:3, and his purpose is what ultimately calls believers Romans 8:28.
In summary, G4795 is a unique term that, while translated as chance, functions within its single biblical context to set up a moral test. Its solitary appearance in Luke 10:31 underscores a key theological point: what may seem like a random accident to people is an opportunity for a purposeful, character-defining response within the framework of God's sovereign will.
TRV