### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **symmimētḗs**, represented by `{{G4831}}`, is defined as a "co-imitator, i.e. fellow votary." It is derived from a presumed compound of words meaning "together" and "to imitate." This term appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, highlighting a specific and focused concept of shared imitation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4831}}` is found in [[Philippians 3:17]], where the Apostle Paul exhorts the believers: "Brethren, be **followers together** of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample." In this context, the word is not just about individual imitation, but a collective, communal effort to follow the same pattern. The believers are called to jointly imitate Paul and his companions, who serve as a living model for the Christian walk.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse clarify the meaning of being a "follower together":
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (a brother): The address to the audience as "Brethren" grounds the command in a context of familial, shared identity [[Philippians 3:17]].
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become): The command is to "**be** followers together," which means to actively become or come into being as a co-imitator, rather than passively observing [[Philippians 3:17]].
* `{{G4648}}` **skopéō** (to take aim at, regard, mark): This action is paired with being a follower together. Believers are to actively **mark** or observe those who live out the proper example, reinforcing the pattern of imitation [[Philippians 3:17]].
* `{{G4043}}` **peripatéō** (to walk, live, deport oneself): This refers to the conduct or lifestyle that is to be imitated. The imitation is of a practical, daily "**walk**" [[Philippians 3:17]].
* `{{G5179}}` **týpos** (a model for imitation, pattern, example): This is the standard or pattern to be copied. Paul presents himself and his companions as the "**ensample**" for the believers to follow [[Philippians 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4831}}` is significant despite its single appearance, establishing a clear model for discipleship.
* **Corporate Imitation:** The word emphasizes that Christian growth is a community project. Believers are to be "followers *together*," reinforcing one another by looking to the same godly examples.
* **Observable Discipleship:** The instruction is not abstract. It is tied to the concrete actions of "marking" `{{G4648}}` those who "walk" `{{G4043}}` correctly, highlighting the importance of visible, lived-out faith as a guide for others.
* **The Apostolic Pattern:** The apostle sets himself as an "ensample" `{{G5179}}`, establishing a principle where believers learn and mature by following the pattern of faithful leaders who themselves are following Christ.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4831}}` is a precise and potent term. Though used only once, **symmimētḗs** powerfully conveys that Christian discipleship is not a solitary endeavor but a shared journey. Its use in [[Philippians 3:17]] inextricably links the concept of communal imitation with the necessity of having and observing a tangible, godly "ensample" to guide the community's "walk."
TRV