### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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