The Greek word syzeúgnymi, represented by G4801, means to yoke together or, figuratively, to conjoin in marriage. While its usage is infrequent, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses, its application carries significant weight, specifically defining the divine nature of the marital union.
The word G4801 is used in a direct and powerful command concerning marriage. In both Matthew and Mark, it establishes that the union of husband and wife is an act of God. The context in Matthew clarifies that the two individuals become "one flesh," and as a result, "What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder" Matthew 19:6. The identical phrasing is used in Mark 10:9, reinforcing this principle as a foundational teaching on the permanence and sacredness of marriage.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and gravity of G4801:
- G5563 chōrízō (put asunder): Defined as "to place room between, i.e. part," this word represents the direct action forbidden by the command. It is the human act of separation that stands in opposition to God's act of joining Matthew 19:6.
- G2316 theós (God): As "the supreme Divinity," this word identifies the one who performs the action of joining together. The authority of the command rests entirely on the fact that G2316 is the agent of the union Mark 10:9.
- G444 ánthrōpos (man): This term for "a human being" is used to specify who is prohibited from dissolving the bond created by God, highlighting the contrast between divine authority and human limitation Mark 10:9.
The theological weight of G4801 is centered on the nature of the marriage covenant.
- Divine Action: The use of "joined together" frames marriage not as a human agreement, but as a divine act. God himself is the one who yokes the two individuals into a single entity Matthew 19:6.
- Indissoluble Bond: The command that follows the use of G4801 is a direct consequence of its divine origin. What God has conjoined, a mere G444 man is not permitted to "put asunder" Mark 10:9.
- A New Creation: The result of being "joined together" is a new state of being: "no more twain, but one flesh" Matthew 19:6. This signifies a profound, spiritual, and physical union that transcends the two separate individuals.
In summary, G4801 is a concise but potent term that defines marriage as a divine institution. Though used only twice, it establishes the foundation for a biblical understanding of the marital union as an act performed by God, resulting in an inseparable "one flesh" bond that is to be protected from human interference. It elevates marriage from a social contract to a sacred covenant.
TRV