### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sýmboulos**, represented by `{{G4825}}`, is defined as a consultor or adviser, rendered as **counsellor**. Derived from σύν and βουλή, its use in scripture is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. This scarcity highlights its specific and impactful role within its sole context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G4825}}` is in [[Romans 11:34]], which poses a set of rhetorical questions: "For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his **counsellor**?" This usage serves to emphasize the supreme and inscrutable wisdom of God. By asking who could possibly act as a **counsellor** to the Lord, the text asserts that God's knowledge and plans are entirely self-contained and not subject to human advice or understanding.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the concept of God's unassailable wisdom:
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to "know"): This verb is central to the question, asking who could possibly **know** the Lord's mind, establishing the foundation for why he needs no counsellor [[John 17:3]].
* `{{G3563}}` **noûs** (the intellect, i.e. mind): This specifies the object of unknowable depth—the very **mind** of God. The same word is used to contrast this with the **mind** of Christ, which believers can have [[1 Corinthians 2:16]].
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (supreme in authority... Lord, master): This title identifies the one who is beyond counsel. As the **Lord**, his authority is absolute and requires no external consultation [[2 Timothy 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4825}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Divine Self-Sufficiency:** The word is used to declare that God's wisdom is complete and needs no external input. The question "who hath been his counsellor?" [[Romans 11:34]] is a statement on the absolute sovereignty of the Lord.
* **Incomprehensibility of God:** By establishing that no one can be God's **counsellor**, the text highlights the profound mystery of His mind. It reinforces the idea that His ways and thoughts are higher than our own, following the preceding question, "who hath known the mind of the Lord?" [[Romans 11:34]].
* **Contrast with Humanity:** The concept of a **counsellor** is a human one, rooted in the need for advice and shared wisdom. Its application to God in a negative rhetorical question starkly contrasts divine independence with human interdependence.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4825}}` provides a concise and potent theological statement. Though used only once, its appearance as **counsellor** in a rhetorical question [[Romans 11:34]] decisively establishes the absolute and independent nature of God's wisdom. It is a key term for understanding the limitless mind of the Lord, who stands alone, un-counseled and supreme in His authority.
TRV