The Greek word syllaléō, represented by G4814, is defined as to talk together, i.e. converse. Derived from σύν and λαλέω, it specifically denotes a mutual or joint discussion. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, carrying the sense of communing, conferring, or speaking among a group.
The use of G4814 captures several pivotal conversations. Most notably, it describes the scene at the Transfiguration, where Moses and Elias appeared and were talking with Jesus (Matthew 17:3, Mark 9:4, Luke 9:30). The word is also used to describe the reaction of a crowd, who spake among themselves in amazement at Christ's authority over unclean spirits Luke 4:36. In a more sinister context, it depicts Judas as he communed with the chief priests to orchestrate his betrayal of Jesus Luke 22:4. Finally, it is used in a formal, governmental sense when Festus conferred with his council before passing judgment Acts 25:12.
Several related words help clarify the nature of the communication described by G4814:
- G3004 légō (to say): This word often introduces the specific content of a conversation. For instance, after the people spake (G4814) among themselves, the scripture records them saying (G3004), "What a word is this!" Luke 4:36.
- G3056 lógos (word, matter): This refers to the subject of discussion. The crowd in Luke 4:36 began to talk together (G4814) because of the powerful word (G3056) Jesus had spoken.
- G3860 paradídōmi (to betray, deliver up): This word reveals the purpose of a conversation. Judas communed with (G4814) the chief priests specifically about how he might betray (G3860) Jesus to them Luke 22:4.
- G611 apokrínomai (to answer): This describes the result of a deliberation. After Festus had conferred (G4814) with the council, he answered (G611) Paul's appeal Acts 25:12.
The theological weight of G4814 is seen in the gravity of the situations it describes.
- Divine Counsel: The word is used for the transcendent conversation at the Transfiguration, where heavenly representatives talked with the Son of God on earth, bridging the spiritual and physical realms (Matthew 17:3, Luke 9:30).
- Conspiratorial Plotting: It highlights a key moment in the path to the crucifixion, where a secret conference or communion (G4814) is the basis for Judas's plan to betray Jesus Luke 22:4.
- Human Response to Divinity: The term captures the beginning of human understanding and amazement, as people speak among themselves to process the divine authority they have just witnessed in Jesus's ministry Luke 4:36.
- Earthly Judgment: The word signifies formal deliberation that affects the course of the gospel's spread, as when Festus conferred with his council, leading to Paul being sent to Caesar Acts 25:12.
In summary, G4814 is a specific term that moves beyond general speech to describe significant, joint conversations. It is used for interactions ranging from the sacred dialogue between Jesus, Moses, and Elias, to the secret and treacherous communion of Judas, to the formal deliberations of Roman officials. Each use marks a pivotal moment where talking together leads to a profound revelation, a fateful decision, or a critical judgment.
TRV