The Greek word sympáreimi, represented by G4840, means to be at hand together or now present. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, highlighting its specific and rare usage in scripture. It is derived from two other words, σύν (together) and πάρειμι (to be at hand).
In its sole biblical appearance, G4840 is used by the Roman governor Festus as he addresses King Agrippa and a gathered assembly. Festus directs their attention to the prisoner Paul, saying, "all men which are here present with us, ye see this man" Acts 25:24. The term establishes the formal setting of a hearing, acknowledging everyone who has come together to witness the event concerning which the Jews had been "crying that he ought not to live any longer" Acts 25:24.
Several related words from its context clarify the scene:
- G1759 entháde (here, hither): This word specifies the location of the gathering. Festus uses it to contrast the present proceedings with previous appeals made by the Jews in another place, Jerusalem Acts 25:24.
- G1793 entynchánō (deal with, make intercession): This describes how the multitude of the Jews had appealed to Festus concerning Paul, showing the confrontational nature of their entreaty against the prisoner Acts 25:24.
- G2334 theōréō (behold, consider, look on, perceive, see): Festus uses this verb to direct the attention of those present, asking them to "see this man" and consider the case before them Acts 25:24.
While not a theological term itself, the context of G4840 carries significance:
- Public Witness: The use of G4840 underscores that the proceedings against Paul are conducted in a public forum before King Agrippa and "all men" Acts 25:24. This establishes a formal, open record of the events and the accusations.
- Formal Address: Festus uses the term to formally acknowledge the assembly he has convened. It highlights the official nature of the gathering, where a serious charge—that a man "ought not to live any longer"—is being considered Acts 25:24.
- A Call for Collective Observation: By addressing everyone who is "here present with us," Festus invites the entire group to be unified witnesses. He immediately directs this collective body to "see this man," making them all participants in the legal and moral drama unfolding Acts 25:24.
In summary, G4840 is a specific term that, while appearing only once, effectively sets the stage for a critical moment in the book of Acts. It defines the audience of a formal hearing, emphasizing the collective and public nature of the proceedings against Paul. Its use by Festus transforms a simple gathering into an official assembly of witnesses, called to observe and consider a matter of life and death.
TRV