### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synakolouthéō**, represented by `{{G4870}}`, means to **accompany**. Derived from σύν and ἀκολουθέω, its core meaning is to **follow**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, highlighting specific instances of accompaniment in the Gospels.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G4870}}` provides insight into different aspects of following Christ. In one instance, it describes a group of loyal supporters. At the crucifixion, his **acquaintance** and the **women** that **followed** him from Galilee stood at a distance, **beholding** the events [[Luke 23:49]]. In another context, it denotes a chosen, inner circle. Jesus **suffered no man** to **follow** him into a private setting, except for Peter, James, and John [[Mark 5:37]], indicating a selective form of accompaniment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G4870}}` is used:
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (a woman; specially, a wife): This term identifies the group of loyal **women** who **followed** Jesus from Galilee to the site of his crucifixion [[Luke 23:49]].
* `{{G3708}}` **horáō** (to discern clearly, behold, see): This word describes the action of those who followed, as they were **beholding** the crucifixion from afar [[Luke 23:49]].
* `{{G863}}` **aphíēmi** (to send forth, leave, let, suffer): This verb is used to show Jesus's control over who could accompany him, as he **suffered** or permitted only his closest disciples to **follow** [[Mark 5:37]].
* `{{G3762}}` **oudeís** (not even one, none, no man): This word emphasizes the exclusivity of the accompaniment in [[Mark 5:37]], where Jesus allowed **no man** to follow him except his three chosen disciples.
### Theological Significance
The two uses of `{{G4870}}` reveal distinct dimensions of what it means to be a follower:
* **Witnessing from afar:** The **women** who **followed** Jesus demonstrated a persistent loyalty, accompanying him to the very end and serving as witnesses to his suffering [[Luke 23:49]]. Their following was one of faithful observation.
* **Privileged access:** Jesus’s choice to allow only Peter, James, and John to **follow** him illustrates a more intimate level of discipleship, where accompaniment is a privilege granted to a select few [[Mark 5:37]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4870}}` is a specific term for following that, despite its infrequent use, captures a significant dynamic in the Gospels. It contrasts the faithful, public witness of a larger group of followers with the exclusive, inner-circle access granted only to a chosen few. The word illustrates that to **follow** can mean both to be a loyal observer and a selected companion.
TRV