### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term σύμβουλος (G4825), transliterated as *sýmboulos*, is a compound word derived from the preposition σύν (syn - `{{G4862}}`), meaning "with" or "together," and the noun βουλή (boulē - `{{G1012}}`), meaning "counsel," "plan," or "purpose." Etymologically, therefore, *sýmboulos* denotes one who counsels *with* another, a co-counselor, or an adviser. Its core meaning lies in the act of providing deliberate, considered guidance or advice, often implying a shared process of deliberation or the seeking of wisdom from another. The semantic range of *sýmboulos* thus centers on the role of an adviser, a consultant, or one who offers counsel in a formal or weighty capacity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σύμβουλος (G4825) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Romans 11:34]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, as it is a direct quotation from the Septuagint (LXX) version of [[Isaiah 40:13]].
In [[Romans 11:34]], Paul writes: "For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counsellor?" (NIV/ESV). This verse concludes a lengthy and intricate theological exposition (Romans 9-11) concerning God's sovereign plan for both Israel and the Gentiles. The rhetorical question serves as a climactic doxology, emphasizing God's absolute and unsearchable wisdom, knowledge, and judgment.
The context of [[Romans 11:34]] underscores God's complete independence and self-sufficiency. The question "who has been his counsellor?" implies that God does not need, nor has He ever needed, external advice, input, or guidance for His plans or decisions. Unlike human rulers or individuals who often seek counsel from others due to their limited knowledge or foresight, God's wisdom is infinite and perfect. He is the ultimate source of all wisdom, and His purposes originate entirely within Himself. This singular use of *sýmboulos* thus highlights a fundamental attribute of God: His divine autonomy and incomprehensibility.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological roots of σύμβουλος (G4825) connect it directly to several important Greek terms:
* **βουλή (boulē - `{{G1012}}`):** This noun signifies "counsel," "purpose," or "plan." It is often used in the New Testament to refer to God's predetermined will or unchangeable purpose, as seen in passages like [[Acts 2:23]] regarding the crucifixion of Christ by God's "definite plan and foreknowledge."
* **βουλεύω (bouleuo - `{{G1011}}`):** The verb form, meaning "to deliberate," "to take counsel," or "to plan."
* **σύν (syn - `{{G4862}}`):** The prefix "with" or "together," which in other contexts might imply collaboration, but here, when negated, emphasizes God's absolute lack of need for a co-counselor.
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalent for "counselor" or "adviser" is typically יוֹעֵץ (yo'ets), derived from the verb יָעַץ (ya'ats - `{{H3289}}`), meaning "to counsel" or "to advise." The direct Old Testament source for [[Romans 11:34]] is [[Isaiah 40:13]], which uses יוֹעֵץ in the same rhetorical question: "Who has measured the Spirit of the Lord, or what man shows Him His counsel?" (ESV). This strong intertextual link confirms the consistent theological emphasis across testaments regarding God's unique, unassisted wisdom.
The concept of *sýmboulos* is also related to broader theological themes such as:
* **Divine Wisdom:** God's infinite knowledge and perfect understanding.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's absolute rule and control, where His plans are unchallengeable and self-originated.
* **Human Limitation:** The inherent inability of finite human beings to fully grasp or advise the infinite God.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of σύμβουλος (G4825) in [[Romans 11:34]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a powerful declaration of God's absolute independence and self-sufficiency.
1. **God's Unapproachable Wisdom:** The rhetorical question "who has been his counsellor?" highlights that God's mind is beyond human comprehension. His wisdom is not derived from any external source, nor can it be improved upon by human or angelic counsel. This emphasizes His transcendence and the vast chasm between finite creation and the infinite Creator.
2. **Divine Autonomy and Sovereignty:** God's lack of a *sýmboulos* underscores His complete autonomy. He does not consult with others because His plans and purposes are perfect and originate solely from His own being. This reinforces the doctrine of divine sovereignty, asserting that God's will is ultimate and uninfluenced by external factors.
3. **Humility in Worship:** For believers, this truth cultivates deep humility and reverence. We are not called to advise God but to submit to His perfect will and to trust in His unsearchable wisdom. It reshapes our understanding of prayer, moving it from an attempt to persuade God to an act of seeking His will and aligning ourselves with His purposes.
4. **Contrast with Human Need:** The contrast between God's self-sufficiency and humanity's constant need for counsel is stark. Humans are inherently limited in knowledge and foresight, necessitating the seeking of advice from others. God, however, is the ultimate source of all good counsel, needing none Himself.
### Summary
The Greek word σύμβουλος (G4825), meaning "counselor" or "adviser," is a compound of "with" and "counsel." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Romans 11:34]], a direct quotation from [[Isaiah 40:13]], is exceptionally significant. In this context, it emphatically declares God's absolute independence, infinite wisdom, and sovereign self-sufficiency. The rhetorical question "who has been his counsellor?" underscores that God's mind is unsearchable and His plans are perfect, requiring no external input or advice from any created being. This term thus serves as a powerful theological statement, highlighting the profound distinction between the finite, dependent nature of humanity and the infinite, autonomous wisdom of God, calling believers to humble submission and worship before His incomprehensible will.
TRV