The Greek word symbállō, represented by G4820, is derived from σύν and βάλλω and fundamentally means to combine. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. This term's applications are diverse, translated as to confer, dispute, encounter, help, make, meet with, or ponder, reflecting its core idea of bringing things or people together.
In its biblical usage, G4820 describes various forms of combination. It is used for mental combination, as when Mary pondered all the events surrounding Jesus' birth, combining them in her heart Luke 2:19. It also describes verbal consultation, where the council conferred among themselves after commanding the apostles to leave Acts 4:15. The word is used for physical encounters, such as when philosophers encountered Paul in Athens Acts 17:18 or when Paul met with his companions at Assos Acts 20:14. Finally, it can signify combining resources or efforts, as when a king considers whether to make war Luke 14:31 or when Apollos helped the believers in Achaia Acts 18:27.
Several related Greek words help clarify the different facets of G4820:
- G1011 bouleúō (to advise, i.e. (reflexively) deliberate, or (by implication) resolve): This word highlights the element of consultation. In Luke 14:31, a king first consulteth G1011 before he decides whether he is able to make G4820 war.
- G528 apantáō (to meet away, i.e. encounter): This term focuses on the act of meeting. It appears alongside G4820 in the parable of the king, who must determine if he is able to meet G528 his enemy in battle Luke 14:31.
- G4389 protrépomai (to turn forward for oneself, i.e. encourage): This word shows a prelude to the "helping" aspect of G4820. The brethren wrote, exhorting G4389 the disciples to receive Apollos, who then helped G4820 them greatly Acts 18:27.
The significance of G4820 lies in its focus on purposeful combination.
- Strategic Combination: The word implies a thoughtful bringing together of resources or counsel to face a challenge. This is seen when the council conferred Acts 4:15 and when the king determines if he can make war Luke 14:31.
- Providential Encounters: It is used to mark pivotal meetings in the narrative of the early church. Paul's journey involves a planned meeting with his companions Acts 20:14 and an oppositional encounter with philosophers that leads to his sermon Acts 17:18.
- Internal and External Support: The term connects the inner act of mental synthesis with the outer act of providing aid. Mary pondered by bringing thoughts together Luke 2:19, while Apollos helped by bringing his support to the believers Acts 18:27.
In summary, G4820 is a dynamic term that illustrates the concept of "combining" in multiple contexts. It moves from the internal act of pondering information to the external acts of conferring with others, encountering opponents or friends, and helping the church. Whether in the heart, in council, or on the battlefield, symbállō conveys the bringing together of parts to form a considered whole or a strategic action.
TRV