### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sympolítēs**, represented by `{{G4847}}`, defines the concept of a **fellowcitizen**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word is formed from "σύν" and "πολίτης," literally meaning a native of the same town. Figuratively, it expands to describe a co-religionist or fellow-Christian, signifying a shared belonging and identity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4847}}` occurs in [[Ephesians 2:19]], where it marks a profound shift in identity for believers. The verse states that believers **are** `{{G2075}}` "no more strangers and foreigners, **but** fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God" [[Ephesians 2:19]]. In this context, **sympolítēs** serves as the pivotal term that contrasts a past state of alienation with a new reality of inclusion and full membership within a holy community.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[Ephesians 2:19]] help define the meaning of `{{G4847}}` through contrast and association:
* `{{G3581}}` **xénos** (stranger): This word for a foreigner or guest is used to describe the believer's former status, directly contrasting with the new identity as a fellowcitizen [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* `{{G3941}}` **pároikos** (foreigner): Meaning an alien resident or by-dweller, this term is used alongside **xénos** to emphasize a previous state of being an outsider [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* `{{G40}}` **hágios** (saint): This word, meaning sacred or holy, identifies the group with whom believers now share their citizenship. They are fellowcitizens *with the saints* [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* `{{G3609}}` **oikeîos** (household): Used immediately after **sympolítēs**, this term for a domestic relative or adherent deepens the metaphor from civic belonging to familial inclusion within the household of God [[Ephesians 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4847}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful use.
* **A Transformed Status:** The word marks the end of a former existence. Believers are "**no more**" `{{G3765}}` strangers and foreigners, signifying a definitive and permanent change in their spiritual standing [[Ephesians 2:19]].
* **A Shared Citizenship:** The status of **fellowcitizen** is not held in isolation but is a corporate identity shared "with the saints" `{{G40}}`. This establishes a new community defined by a common relationship to God.
* **Inclusion in the Divine Family:** The concept is elevated beyond a political metaphor to a relational one. Being a **fellowcitizen** is intrinsically linked to being "of the **household** `{{G3609}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}`," indicating a move from being an alien to being a member of God's own family [[Ephesians 2:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4847}}` **sympolítēs**, while rare, is a theologically rich term. It encapsulates the believer's transition from being an outsider to a full member of God's spiritual kingdom. By contrasting this status of **fellowcitizen** with that of a stranger `{{G3581}}` and foreigner `{{G3941}}`, the word powerfully illustrates the new identity, community, and belonging that is found in God, as a member of a holy citizenry and His divine household [[Ephesians 2:19]].
TRV