The Greek word symperilambánō, represented by G4843, means to embrace or to "take by enclosing altogether." It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting a specific and powerful moment of physical contact.
The sole use of G4843 is found in a dramatic scene where the apostle Paul performs a life-restoring act. After a young man falls, Paul G3972 went down G2597 and fell on G1968 him. In this moment, he is described as embracing G4843 the man and declaring, "Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him" Acts 20:10. The word captures the totality of the physical act that precedes the reassurance of life.
Several related words illuminate the context of this singular event:
- G1968 epipíptō: Defined as "to embrace (with affection) or seize," this word is used when Paul fell on the man Acts 20:10. It is also used to describe the father's emotional embrace of his returning son Luke 15:20 and the Ephesian elders falling on Paul's neck in sorrow Acts 20:37.
- G5590 psychḗ: This word for life or soul is central to Paul's declaration. He confirms that the man's life G5590 is still in him, making the preceding embrace a sign of this reality Acts 20:10.
- G2350 thorybéō: Meaning "to be in tumult, i.e. disturb, clamor," this describes the state of the onlookers. Paul's command, "Trouble not yourselves," contrasts the peace of his action with the crowd's distress Acts 20:10.
The theological significance of G4843 is tied directly to its sole appearance:
- Tangible Restoration: The act of embracing the young man is a physical and visible prelude to the miracle. It illustrates how God's power can work through a tangible, human gesture of care.
- Bringing Peace in Tumult: Paul's embrace and his words serve to calm the crowd who were in a tumult G2350. The action provides comfort and counters the fear and chaos of the moment Acts 20:10.
- Confirmation of Life: The embrace is immediately followed by Paul's authoritative statement that the man's life G5590 is in him. The word therefore signifies an act that is profoundly connected to the preservation and affirmation of life.
In summary, symperilambánō G4843 provides a powerful and specific depiction of an embrace. Though used only once, its context in Acts 20:10 shows it to be more than a simple hug; it is an all-encompassing, restorative act. It demonstrates a moment where a physical expression of compassion is directly linked to the confirmation of life and the calming of a distressed crowd, highlighting the power working through the apostle Paul.
TRV