### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synantáō**, represented by `{{G4876}}`, means "to **meet** with" and can also be used figuratively to mean "to occur" or "**befall**." It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This word describes encounters that can be either planned, divinely orchestrated, or unforeseen circumstances that one comes across.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G4876}}` is used to describe significant meetings. The priest-king Melchisedec **met** Abraham as he was returning from the slaughter of the kings ([[Hebrews 7:1]], [[Hebrews 7:10]]). In the book of Acts, Cornelius **met** the apostle Peter, a pivotal moment where he fell at his feet to worship him [[Acts 10:25]]. A great multitude of people also **met** Jesus after He descended from a hill [[Luke 9:37]]. Figuratively, the word is used by the apostle Paul, who, while bound in the spirit on his way to Jerusalem, stated he did not know what things would **befall** him there [[Acts 20:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context to the act of meeting:
* `{{G5290}}` **hypostréphō** (to return): The meeting between Abraham and Melchisedec occurs as Abraham is **returning** from battle, framing the encounter as a significant event upon his journey back [[Hebrews 7:1]].
* `{{G190}}` **akolouthéō** (to follow): In Luke's gospel, the disciples are told a man will meet them, and they are instructed to **follow** him, showing that the meeting is an initial sign that leads to further action [[Luke 22:10]].
* `{{G1210}}` **déō** (to bind): Paul speaks of things that will **befall** him in Jerusalem while he is **bound** in the spirit, linking the uncertainty of the encounter with his own sense of spiritual constraint [[Acts 20:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4876}}` is seen in how it frames pivotal events as divine appointments rather than chance occurrences.
* **Providential Encounters:** The word highlights moments orchestrated by God for a specific purpose. This is evident when Cornelius **met** Peter, an event that opened the door for the gospel to the Gentiles [[Acts 10:25]], and when the disciples **meet** the man with a pitcher of water as a specific sign from Jesus [[Luke 22:10]].
* **Anticipating God's Plan:** The figurative use of the word to mean "**befall**" shows an understanding that future circumstances are events that one "meets" along a path directed by God's will. Paul's uncertainty about what will **befall** him in Jerusalem is coupled with his resolve to go, as he is bound by the Spirit [[Acts 20:22]].
* **Theological Precedent:** The meeting between Melchisedec and Abraham is a foundational moment. This encounter, described with `{{G4876}}`, serves as a cornerstone for the theology of Christ's high priesthood in the book of Hebrews [[Hebrews 7:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4876}}` moves beyond a simple description of a meeting. It is used to capture both physical encounters and the figurative experience of events occurring in one's life. These instances are frequently portrayed as significant and purposeful, whether it is a historical meeting establishing a priestly line or an apostle facing an unknown future. The word demonstrates how scripture presents key moments as divinely orchestrated encounters that shape redemptive history.
TRV