### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συζεύγνυμι (syzeúgnymi, `{{G4801}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`), meaning "with" or "together," and the base of the noun ζεῦγος (zeugos, `{{G2201}}`), which denotes "a yoke," "a pair," or "a team." Literally, therefore, συζεύγνυμι signifies "to yoke together," as one would harness two animals for a common task. Metaphorically, and primarily in its biblical usage, it conveys the profound concept of "to join together" or "to unite" in an indissoluble bond, specifically within the context of marriage. The prefix σύν emphasizes the intimate and unified nature of this joining, suggesting a complete integration rather than a mere association. The underlying image of a yoke implies a shared burden, a common direction, and a mutual commitment, all divinely ordained.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb συζεύγνυμι (syzeúgnymi, `{{G4801}}`) appears exclusively in the New Testament in two parallel passages where Jesus teaches on the sanctity and permanence of marriage:
* [[Matthew 19:6]]: "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate."
* [[Mark 10:9]]: "Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate."
In both instances, Jesus directly addresses the question of divorce posed by the Pharisees. His response points back to the creation account in [[Genesis 1:27]] and [[Genesis 2:24]], emphasizing God's original design for marriage. The crucial phrase, "What therefore God has joined together, let no one separate," highlights the divine agency in the marital union. It is not merely a human contract or social arrangement, but an act initiated and consecrated by God Himself. The active voice of the verb, coupled with the explicit mention of "God" as the subject, underscores that the joining is a divine work. This divine act bestows upon marriage a sacred character and an intended permanence, making human dissolution of the bond a transgression against God's established order.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of συζεύγνυμι (syzeúgnymi, `{{G4801}}`) is enriched by its constituent parts and related theological concepts:
* **σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`):** This prefix consistently denotes a close association, companionship, or union. Its presence in συζεύγνυμι emphasizes the intimate and unified nature of the marital bond, where two become "one flesh" (μία σάρξ, mia sarx).
* **ζεῦγος (zeugos, `{{G2201}}`):** While not directly used in the marital context, the literal meaning of "yoke" informs the figurative sense. It evokes images of shared labor, mutual dependence, and a unified direction, all essential elements of a healthy and God-honoring marriage. The concept of being "unequally yoked" (ἑτεροζυγέω, heterozygeō, `{{G2088}}`) in [[2 Corinthians 6:14]], though using a different verb, draws upon the same underlying imagery of a yoke, highlighting the importance of spiritual compatibility in partnerships.
* **γάμος (gamos, `{{G1062}}`):** This is the general Greek term for "marriage" or "wedding." συζεύγνυμι specifies the divine act of uniting within the broader institution of γάμος.
* **ἀφίημι (aphiemi, `{{G863}}`):** Meaning "to send away" or "to divorce," this verb stands in stark contrast to συζεύγνυμι in Jesus' discourse. While human beings may seek to ἀφίημι, Jesus' teaching asserts that what God has συζεύγνυμι should not be separated by human will.
* **κτίζω (ktizō, `{{G2936}}`):** "To create." Jesus' argument for the permanence of marriage is rooted in God's act of creation, where He made humanity male and female and ordained their union. The divine "joining" is thus an extension of God's creative design.
* **ἕν (hen, `{{G1520}}`):** "One." The concept of "one flesh" (μία σάρξ) is central to the biblical understanding of marriage, signifying a profound spiritual, physical, and emotional unity that transcends mere cohabitation.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of συζεύγνυμι (syzeúgnymi, `{{G4801}}`) is profound and multifaceted:
* **Divine Institution of Marriage:** The most critical implication is that marriage is not merely a human social construct or a legal agreement, but a divine institution. The active agent in "yoking together" is God Himself. This elevates marriage to a sacred covenant, established and blessed by the Creator, rather than a mutable human tradition.
* **Indissolubility and Permanence:** By stating "What therefore God has joined together, let no one separate," Jesus declares the intended permanence of the marital bond. The divine act of joining creates a union that human beings are not authorized to dissolve. This underscores the sanctity and inviolability of marriage in God's eyes, setting a high standard for commitment and fidelity.
* **Covenantal Nature:** The concept of being "yoked together" by God implies a covenantal relationship. A covenant is a solemn agreement, often with divine witness and participation, that establishes a binding relationship. Marriage, therefore, is understood as a covenant before God, demanding faithfulness and endurance.
* **Reflection of God's Order:** Marriage, as divinely instituted and joined, reflects God's ordered creation and His design for human flourishing. It is a fundamental building block of society and a primary context for procreation and the raising of children in a godly environment.
* **Holiness and Sanctity:** Because God is the one who joins, the marital union is inherently holy and set apart for His purposes. This calls for a reverent approach to marriage, recognizing its sacred nature and striving to live within it in a manner that honors God.
### Summary
The Greek verb συζεύγνυμι (syzeúgnymi, `{{G4801}}`) literally means "to yoke together," but in its biblical usage, it carries the profound theological meaning of "to join together" in marriage by divine act. Found exclusively in Jesus' teachings on marriage in [[Matthew 19:6]] and [[Mark 10:9]], the word underscores that the union of a man and a woman in marriage is not merely a human arrangement but a sacred institution established and consecrated by God Himself. This divine "joining" implies the intended indissolubility and permanence of the marital bond, elevating it to a holy covenant that human beings are not permitted to separate. The word thus encapsulates the divine origin, sacred nature, and covenantal commitment inherent in the biblical understanding of marriage.
TRV