### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συλλαλέω (syllaléō), `{{G4814}}`, is a compound word formed from the preposition σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb λαλέω (laléō), `{{G2980}}`, meaning "to speak" or "to talk." Therefore, its core meaning is "to speak together" or "to converse." The prefix σύν emphasizes the interactive and communal nature of the communication, distinguishing it from a monologue or individual utterance. Its semantic range extends to "communing," "conferring," or "discussing" with others. Depending on the context, this can imply a shared deliberation, a confidential conversation, or even a conspiratorial plotting. The essence is always a reciprocal exchange of words between two or more parties.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
συλλαλέω appears a limited number of times in the New Testament, yet each occurrence is highly significant, revealing the diverse applications of shared speech:
* **Divine Revelation and Confirmation:** In the Synoptic accounts of the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah are depicted as συλλαλέω with Jesus:
* [[Matthew 17:3]]: "And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, συλλαλέω with him."
* [[Mark 9:4]]: "And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were συλλαλέω with Jesus."
* [[Luke 9:30]]: "And behold, two men were συλλαλέω with him, Moses and Elijah."
In these passages, the shared conversation between Jesus and these foundational figures of the Old Testament signifies a profound divine communion. Their discussion, which Luke specifies was "of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem" ([[Luke 9:31]]), highlights a revelatory and confirmatory exchange concerning the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Christ's passion. This is a sacred dialogue, underscoring the continuity of God's work across the ages.
* **Conspiratorial Plotting:** The word takes on a darker connotation when describing the actions of those plotting against Jesus:
* [[Luke 22:4]]: "So he went and συλλαλέω with the chief priests and captains how he might betray him to them."
Here, Judas Iscariot "communed" or "conferred" with the religious authorities. The context makes it clear that this was a clandestine and malicious conversation aimed at orchestrating Jesus' betrayal. The verb effectively conveys the secretive and collaborative nature of their wicked scheme.
* **Judicial Deliberation:** In the context of legal proceedings, συλλαλέω denotes official consultation:
* [[Acts 25:12]]: "Then Festus, when he had συλλαλέω with the council, answered, 'You have appealed to Caesar; to Caesar you shall go.'"
Here, Governor Festus "conferred" or "consulted" with his advisory council before making a significant judicial decision regarding Paul's appeal. This usage indicates a formal discussion or deliberation among a group to reach a conclusion or formulate a response.
These diverse contexts demonstrate that συλλαλέω is neutral in its moral implication; its character is entirely determined by the nature and intent of the speakers and the content of their conversation. It can describe holy communion, wicked conspiracy, or formal deliberation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of συλλαλέω is enriched by examining its relationship to other Greek words and concepts:
* **λαλέω (laléō) `{{G2980}}`**: The root verb, meaning "to speak," "to talk." συλλαλέω specifies that the speaking is done "together."
* **σύν (syn) `{{G4862}}`**: The prefix itself, emphasizing togetherness, companionship, or joint action. Many other verbs are compounded with σύν to indicate a shared activity (e.g., συζητέω (syzēteō) `{{G4802}}` - to discuss together; συμβουλεύω (symbouleuō) `{{G4823}}` - to take counsel together).
* **διαλέγομαι (dialégomai) `{{G1256}}`**: "to discuss," "to reason," "to dispute." While also implying interaction, διαλέγομαι often suggests a more argumentative or reasoned exchange, a back-and-forth, rather than simply conversing.
* **ὁμιλέω (homiléō) `{{G3656}}`**: "to associate with," "to converse with." This word often implies a more general social interaction or discourse.
* **συζητέω (syzētéō) `{{G4802}}`**: "to question together," "to discuss," "to dispute." Often implies a search for understanding or a contentious debate, similar to διαλέγομαι.
The concept of shared communication is vital in biblical theology, encompassing themes such as:
* **Fellowship (κοινωνία - koinōnía `{{G2842}}`):** The shared life and communion of believers.
* **Counsel and Wisdom:** The act of seeking and giving advice within a community.
* **Conspiracy and Deceit:** The negative potential of shared speech when used for evil purposes.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of συλλαλέω lies in its portrayal of the power and nature of shared communication, revealing both divine and human dynamics.
Firstly, its use in the Transfiguration narratives ([[Matthew 17:3]], [[Mark 9:4]], [[Luke 9:30]]) elevates the concept of "talking together" to a sacred, revelatory act. Here, it signifies the profound communion between the Son of God and the greatest figures of the Old Covenant, Moses representing the Law and Elijah the Prophets. Their conversation with Jesus on His "departure" (exodus) at Jerusalem underscores the divine orchestration of salvation history and the unity of God's plan. This sacred συλλαλέω reveals God's continuous engagement with humanity and the divine confirmation of Christ's mission. It suggests that true spiritual communion involves a shared understanding and alignment with God's purposes.
Secondly, the stark contrast with Judas's συλλαλέω with the chief priests ([[Luke 22:4]]) highlights the moral neutrality of the act of conversing itself. The same verb that describes divine communion also describes a wicked conspiracy. This underscores that communication, while a fundamental aspect of human existence, can be wielded for either good or evil. It is the content, intent, and outcome of the shared speech that determines its moral and spiritual character. This serves as a potent reminder of the responsibility inherent in our words and discussions.
Finally, the use of συλλαλέω in [[Acts 25:12]] (Festus conferring with his council) points to the importance of deliberation and shared decision-making in human governance and judicial processes. While not explicitly theological, it reflects the practical necessity of collective counsel, a principle that also applies to the life and governance of the Church, where elders and leaders often "confer" to make wise decisions guided by the Holy Spirit.
### Summary
συλλαλέω (`{{G4814}}`) fundamentally means "to speak together" or "to converse," emphasizing interactive communication. Its biblical occurrences showcase a remarkable semantic range: from the holy and revelatory dialogue between Jesus, Moses, and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration ([[Matthew 17:3]], [[Mark 9:4]], [[Luke 9:30]]), which confirms divine purpose, to the dark and conspiratorial plotting of Judas with the chief priests for Jesus' betrayal ([[Luke 22:4]]). It also describes the practical, deliberative discussions in judicial contexts ([[Acts 25:12]]). The theological significance of συλλαλέω lies in its demonstration that shared speech is a powerful medium, capable of facilitating profound divine communion and revelation, yet also susceptible to being used for malicious conspiracy or practical deliberation. It serves as a reminder of the dual potential of human communication, capable of reflecting God's glory or serving sinful ends, always dependent on the heart and purpose of those who engage in it.
TRV