### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sýzygos**, represented by `{{G4805}}`, means **yokefellow**. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible. Derived from a term meaning "co-yoked," its figurative use is to describe a colleague. The definition also notes that it could be interpreted as a proper name, Syzygus, referring to a specific Christian.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4805}}` is found in [[Philippians 4:3]], where Paul makes a personal appeal. He writes, "I intreat thee also, true **yokefellow**, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel." The context is a call to action, asking this trusted partner to provide aid to fellow believers. This **yokefellow** is positioned as a key figure in a team that includes Paul, Clement, and other "fellowlabourers" whose names are in the book of life.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only appearance in [[Philippians 4:3]] illuminate the concept of collaborative ministry:
* `{{G2065}}` **erōtáō** (to interrogate; by implication, to request): This word is used when Paul "intreats" or beseeches his yokefellow for help [[Philippians 4:3]]. It can also mean to "pray" to the Father [[John 14:16]] or to "beseech" fellow brethren [[1 Thessalonians 4:1]].
* `{{G4815}}` **syllambánō** (to clasp, i.e. seize... by implication, to aid): This is the specific action requested of the yokefellow: to "help" the women who labored in the gospel [[Philippians 4:3]]. The word is also used for the literal act to "conceive" a child [[Luke 1:31]] or to "take" someone into custody [[Acts 12:3]].
* `{{G4866}}` **synathléō** (to wrestle in company with, i.e. (figuratively) to seek jointly): This describes the shared effort of the women who "laboured" with Paul [[Philippians 4:3]]. It emphasizes a joint struggle, as seen when believers are called to be "striving together" for the faith of the gospel [[Philippians 1:27]].
* `{{G4904}}` **synergós** (a co-laborer, i.e. coadjutor): This term is used to describe Paul's other companions, his "fellowlabourers" [[Philippians 4:3]]. It is a title of honor given to figures like Timothy, a "fellowlabourer in the gospel" [[1 Thessalonians 3:2]], and others who are "fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God" [[Colossians 4:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4805}}` is rooted in its depiction of Christian community and partnership.
* **Shared Labor in the Gospel:** The term **yokefellow** is directly tied to the act of laboring together. The person is asked to help women who "laboured" `{{G4866}}` with Paul, alongside other "fellowlabourers" `{{G4904}}`, emphasizing that ministry is a collaborative, shared burden [[Philippians 4:3]].
* **Mutual Support:** The central command to the **yokefellow** is to "help" `{{G4815}}` others within the community. This highlights the principle that being "co-yoked" involves a mutual responsibility for the care and support of fellow workers in the faith.
* **Valued Partnership:** By addressing someone as a "true **yokefellow**," Paul affirms a significant and genuine partnership. This person is not just an acquaintance but a trusted colleague, integral to the work of the gospel and part of the community whose names are in the book of life [[Philippians 4:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4805}}` is more than a simple label. As **yokefellow**, it provides a powerful and concise illustration of Christian partnership. Though used only once, its context in [[Philippians 4:3]] frames it as a title for a trusted colleague called upon to provide essential support to other believers who have also labored in the gospel. The word encapsulates the interconnected themes of shared work, mutual aid, and the deep value of being a "fellowlabourer" for Christ.
TRV