### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synaírō**, represented by `{{G4868}}`, means to **compute an account** or to **reckon**. It is defined as coming from σύν and αἴρω, meaning to make up together. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, used figuratively to describe the act of settling financial or moral accounts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4868}}` is used exclusively in parables told in the Gospel of Matthew to illustrate a moment of judgment. It is used when a king decides to **take** account with his servants [[Matthew 18:23]] and again when the process begins, as he "had begun to **reckon**" [[Matthew 18:24]]. The word also appears in a similar parable where a lord returns after a long time and **reckoneth** with his servants [[Matthew 25:19]]. In every instance, it signifies a final settling of affairs between a master and his subordinates.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the act of reckoning:
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (account): Defined as something said, a computation, or a topic. In the verses where `{{G4868}}` appears, it is used for the **account** that is being settled ([[Matthew 18:23]], [[Matthew 25:19]]).
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (servant): A slave or servant. This word identifies the individuals who are subject to the reckoning, as the king takes account of his **servants** [[Matthew 18:23]].
* `{{G3781}}` **opheilétēs** (debtor): A person who is indebted. The act of reckoning `{{G4868}}` immediately reveals those who **owed** something, highlighting the consequence of the accounting [[Matthew 18:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4868}}` is focused on the theme of divine judgment and accountability.
* **Final Accountability:** The word is used in parables describing the kingdom of heaven to signify a final, unavoidable accounting. The king who would **take** account [[Matthew 18:23]] and the lord who **reckoneth** [[Matthew 25:19]] are both figures of divine authority.
* **Stewardship and Service:** The reckoning is always with **servants** `{{G1401}}`, underscoring the New Testament theme that followers of God are stewards who will one day answer for their actions.
* **Moral and Spiritual Debt:** The process of reckoning reveals a **debtor** `{{G3781}}`, framing the relationship with God not just in terms of service but also of moral obligation and the need for forgiveness [[Matthew 18:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4868}}` is a specific term used to convey a powerful theological concept. Though appearing only a few times, its use in Matthew's parables of judgment frames our understanding of the final accountability that all **servants** `{{G1401}}` face before their master. It transforms the idea of a simple financial calculation into a profound metaphor for the settling of one's spiritual **account** `{{G3056}}` with God.
TRV