### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4843 (συμπεριλαμβάνω, *symperilambánō*) is a compound verb rich in meaning, derived from three distinct components: the preposition σύν (`{{G4862}}`, *syn*), meaning "with" or "together"; the preposition περί (`{{G4012}}`, *peri*), meaning "around" or "about"; and the verb λαμβάνω (`{{G2983}}`, *lambánō*), meaning "to take," "to grasp," or "to seize." The synergistic combination of these elements yields a profound core meaning: "to take by enclosing altogether." This implies an action that is complete, encompassing, and intimate. The nuance is not merely to take hold, but to take hold *completely* and *surroundingly*, suggesting a full, earnest, and often affectionate embrace. It denotes a comprehensive act of taking someone into one's arms, signifying deep connection, comfort, or intense engagement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G4843 (συμπεριλαμβάνω) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 20:10]]. The context is highly dramatic and significant:
> "But Paul went down, and fell on him, and **embraced** him, and said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him."
This verse describes the Apostle Paul's immediate response after Eutychus, having fallen from a third-story window during Paul's lengthy sermon, was taken up for dead. Paul's action of "falling on him" and then "embracing" him (G4843) is pivotal. The use of συμπεριλαμβάνω here indicates more than a simple hug; it conveys a full, earnest, and life-affirming embrace. This physical act is not merely a gesture of comfort for the onlookers, but an integral part of the miraculous restoration of Eutychus's life. Paul's embrace signifies a profound, almost re-creative, connection, as if he is "taking hold" of Eutychus's life and drawing it back into his body. It is an act of intimate engagement with the very essence of life, demonstrating divine power at work through the apostle.
### Related Words & Concepts
The components of G4843 offer insight into its semantic field:
* λαμβάνω (`{{G2983}}`): The root verb, meaning "to take," "receive," or "grasp." This foundational element highlights the active nature of the embrace—it is a taking or seizing.
* σύν (`{{G4862}}`): The prefix "with" or "together," emphasizing the complete union or togetherness involved in the embrace. It is not partial but holistic.
* περί (`{{G4012}}`): The prefix "around" or "about," underscoring the encompassing nature of the embrace, a surrounding action.
Other related concepts include:
* φιλέω (`{{G5368}}`): "to love," often expressing affection or friendship, which can be expressed through an embrace.
* ἀγάπη (`{{G26}}`): "love," particularly divine or unconditional love, which undergirds acts of profound care and compassion, such as Paul's embrace.
* παρακαλέω (`{{G3870}}`): "to comfort," "to encourage," "to exhort." Paul's words immediately following the embrace ("Trouble not yourselves") demonstrate the comforting aspect of his action.
The act of συμπεριλαμβάνω in [[Acts 20:10]] also resonates with the broader biblical theme of restoration and life-giving power, reminiscent of Elijah stretching himself upon the dead child in [[1 Kings 17:21]] or Elisha doing likewise in [[2 Kings 4:34]].
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of G4843 in [[Acts 20:10]] carries significant theological weight. Paul's embrace of Eutychus is far more than a mere human gesture of sympathy. It is an act imbued with divine agency and power, manifesting God's life-giving presence through His servant.
1. **Divine Compassion and Presence:** The embrace signifies God's profound compassion for humanity, even in its most vulnerable state (death). Paul's physical act is a conduit for divine comfort and intervention, assuring the onlookers that God is actively at work.
2. **Restoration of Life:** The "taking by enclosing altogether" (the core meaning of G4843) can be seen as Paul, empowered by the Holy Spirit, "taking hold" of Eutychus's life and restoring it. It is an act of re-integration, bringing life back into a body that was declared dead. This aligns with the New Testament's emphasis on Christ as the source of life and the Spirit as the life-giver.
3. **Assurance and Peace:** The embrace, followed by Paul's calming words, serves to reassure the distressed community. It is a tangible sign of God's control and His ability to overcome death, bringing peace amidst chaos and sorrow.
4. **Embodiment of the Gospel:** Paul's actions embody the gospel message: life from death, hope in despair, and the powerful, intimate presence of God with His people. The embrace is a physical demonstration of the spiritual reality of new life in Christ.
### Summary
The Greek word G4843 (συμπεριλαμβάνω) denotes an earnest, encompassing embrace, a "taking by enclosing altogether." Its solitary, yet powerful, appearance in [[Acts 20:10]] highlights Paul's miraculous act of restoring Eutychus to life. This embrace is not a casual gesture but a profound physical manifestation of divine power, compassion, and the restoration of life. Theologically, it underscores God's intimate involvement in human suffering, His life-giving authority, and His comforting presence, conveyed through the actions of His servants. It serves as a vivid illustration of the gospel's power to bring life from death and peace amidst distress.
TRV