### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **symphylétēs**, represented by `{{G4853}}`, means a **co-tribesman** or a native of the same country. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Derived from words meaning "with" and "tribe," it specifically denotes a person from one's own people or nation, highlighting a shared ethnic or geographical origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4853}}` is in [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]], where it describes the source of the Thessalonian believers' suffering. The verse states that they "suffered like things of your own **countrymen**," drawing a direct parallel to the persecution experienced by the churches of God in Judaea at the hands of the Jews. This context establishes that allegiance to Christ can lead to hostility from one's own community, a hardship shared by believers in different regions.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of shared identity and suffering found in [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]]:
* `{{G2453}}` **Ioudaîos** (Jew): This term identifies the group that persecuted the churches in Judaea, setting up a parallel to the "countrymen" who afflicted the Thessalonians [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]].
* `{{G3958}}` **páschō** (suffer): This word describes the shared experience that unites the Thessalonian believers with the churches in Judaea. Both groups **suffer** for their faith at the hands of their own people [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): The Thessalonians became followers of the **churches** of God in Judaea, indicating a spiritual kinship that transcends national lines and is defined by a common faith and experience [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]].
* `{{G2398}}` **ídios** (one's own): This word modifies **countrymen**, emphasizing that the persecution came from the believers' **own** people, making the opposition deeply personal and internal to their community [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4853}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use:
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The term underscores that a commitment to Christ may result in opposition from those with whom one shares a national or ethnic bond. The believers suffered at the hands of their own **countrymen** [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]].
* **A Shared Identity in Suffering:** The suffering inflicted by **countrymen** unites the Thessalonians with the churches in Judaea. They became "followers" `{{G3402}}` by enduring similar trials, showing that persecution is a common experience for the people of God [[1 Thessalonians 2:14]].
* **New Spiritual Kinship:** The conflict with one's "countrymen" highlights a new, primary identity found "in Christ Jesus" (`{{G5547}}`, `{{G2424}}`). This spiritual family bond creates a shared experience that is more defining than earthly citizenship or tribal affiliation.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4853}}` is a rare term, its singular use powerfully defines the concept of a **countryman** in the context of faith-based persecution. It illustrates that following Christ can create division within established communities and that the resulting suffering serves to unite believers in a new spiritual family, bonded by a shared experience that transcends national or tribal identity.
TRV