### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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