### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sýmmorphos**, represented by `{{G4832}}`, means **jointly formed** or **similar**. It comes from the words σύν (jointly) and μορφή (form). Appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its usage points to a profound and specific theological concept of transformation. The word is translated as "conformed to" and "fashioned like unto."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4832}}` describes both a present spiritual reality and a future physical promise. In Romans, it is used to explain that those whom God foreknew `{{G4267}}` He also predestined `{{G4309}}` to be **conformed** to the image of His Son [[Romans 8:29]]. This signifies a process of being shaped into the likeness of Christ. In Philippians, the word describes the future hope of believers, when Christ will change our vile body so that it may be **fashioned like unto** his glorious body, demonstrating a complete physical transformation [[Philippians 3:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of being jointly formed with Christ:
* `{{G1504}}` **eikṓn**: This word for **image** defines the pattern to which believers are conformed. It is a likeness or representation, and in the case of believers, the goal is conformity to the **image** of God's Son [[Romans 8:29]].
* `{{G3345}}` **metaschēmatízō**: Meaning to **transform** or transfigure, this word describes the action that results in believers being fashioned like Christ. It is the verb that brings about the state of `{{G4832}}`, as Christ will **transform** our lowly bodies [[Philippians 3:21]].
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma**: This word for **body** is the subject of the transformation in Philippians. It is our current "vile **body**" `{{G5014}}` that will be changed to be like Christ's "glorious **body**" `{{G1391}}`, highlighting that this conformity is both spiritual and ultimately physical [[Philippians 3:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4832}}` is significant, outlining the scope of God's purpose for believers.
* **Predestined Likeness:** To be **conformed** `{{G4832}}` is not an accident but a result of God's deliberate plan. It is directly linked to His foreknowledge `{{G4267}}` and predestination `{{G4309}}`, establishing that becoming like Christ is central to God's eternal purpose [[Romans 8:29]].
* **A New Family:** The goal of this conformity is so that Christ might be the **firstborn** `{{G4416}}` among many **brethren** `{{G80}}`. This transformation brings believers into a shared family identity with the Son `{{G5207}}`.
* **Bodily Glorification:** The promise extends to the resurrection, where our current state of **humiliation** `{{G5014}}` is overcome. Our physical bodies will be fashioned like His glorious body, a change accomplished through the powerful **working** `{{G1753}}` by which He is able to **subdue** `{{G5293}}` all things to Himself [[Philippians 3:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4832}}` is a precise term that encapsulates the ultimate goal of the Christian life. Though used only twice, it connects God's predestined plan with the believer's final state. It reveals a dual transformation: a present, spiritual conformity to the image of Christ and a future, physical glorification where believers will fully share in a likeness to their resurrected Lord.
TRV