### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **symbasileúō**, represented by `{{G4821}}`, defines the act to **be co-regent**. It appears 3 times across 2 unique verses. Derived from σύν (meaning "with") and βασιλεύω (meaning "to reign"), its core definition is to **reign with** another, almost always in a figurative, spiritual sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{G4821}}` is used to describe a future, shared authority for believers. In [[1 Corinthians 4:8]], Paul uses the concept to contrast the Corinthian church's self-perceived spiritual status with the apostles' reality. He notes they have "reigned as kings without us" and expresses a wish that they truly did reign, "that we also might **reign with** you." In [[2 Timothy 2:12]], the term is presented as a promise tied to faithfulness through trials, stating, "If we suffer, we shall also **reign with** him."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the conditions and nature of this co-regency:
* `{{G936}}` **basileúō** (to rule (literally or figuratively):--king, reign): This is the root word for reigning, used in [[1 Corinthians 4:8]] when Paul states the Corinthians have "reigned as kings" prematurely. It establishes the foundational concept of ruling that `{{G4821}}` modifies.
* `{{G5278}}` **hypoménō** (to undergo, i.e. bear (trials), have fortitude, persevere:--abide, endure, (take) patient(-ly), suffer, tarry behind): This word for suffering or enduring is presented as a direct prerequisite for co-reigning with Christ [[2 Timothy 2:12]].
* `{{G4147}}` **ploutéō** (to be (or become) wealthy (literally or figuratively):--be increased with goods, (be made, wax) rich): Used in tandem with reigning in [[1 Corinthians 4:8]], this highlights the Corinthians' sense of spiritual self-sufficiency, believing they were already "rich" and ruling.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4821}}` centers on the believer's future hope and relationship with Christ.
* **Conditional Reward:** The promise to **reign with** Christ is not unconditional. It is explicitly linked to the believer's willingness to endure hardship and suffer for Him, as outlined in [[2 Timothy 2:12]].
* **Shared Authority:** The term's composition inherently points to a shared, not an independent, rule. It is a reign *with* Christ and, as Paul's words suggest, also a reign shared among the faithful [[1 Corinthians 4:8]].
* **Future Inheritance:** The act of co-reigning is consistently positioned as a future event, a reward for present faithfulness, rather than a status to be claimed in the present life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4821}}` is a specific and potent term that defines a key aspect of Christian eschatology. It moves beyond the general idea of reigning to emphasize a shared, collaborative rule with Christ. This co-regency is not a current state but a future promise, offered as a reward for those who faithfully endure trials, and it forms a cornerstone of the believer's hope for future glory.
TRV