### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synantilambánomai**, represented by `{{G4878}}`, means to **help** by taking hold of something together with someone. Its base definition is "to take hold of opposite together, i.e. co-operate (assist)." It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, highlighting specific instances of cooperative assistance, both human and divine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G4878}}` illustrate its meaning in distinct contexts. In Luke's Gospel, a distracted Martha, **cumbered** `{{G4049}}` about much serving, asks Jesus to command her sister to **help** her [[Luke 10:40]]. This usage points to a practical, shared-labor application of the word. In Romans, the term takes on a theological dimension, stating that the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` **helpeth** our **infirmities** `{{G769}}`, particularly our inability to know how we ought to **pray for** `{{G4336}}` things [[Romans 8:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which this cooperative **help** is needed:
* `{{G769}}` **asthéneia** (feebleness, infirmity, weakness): This describes the state of frailty that requires assistance. The Spirit specifically **helpeth** our **infirmities** [[Romans 8:26]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): The **Spirit** is identified as the divine agent who provides this cooperative help, particularly in prayer when we are weak [[Romans 8:26]].
* `{{G1247}}` **diakonéō** (to serve, minister): This is the practical work that prompted Martha’s request for **help**. Her focus was on her solitary need to **serve** [[Luke 10:40]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4878}}` is centered on the principle of cooperative aid.
* **Divine Partnership in Prayer:** The most profound use of the word shows the Holy Spirit partnering with believers in their weakness. When we do not know what we should **pray for** `{{G4336}}` as we ought, the Spirit **helpeth** by making **intercession for** `{{G5241}}` us [[Romans 8:26]].
* **Practical Assistance in Service:** The word is grounded in the reality of human relationships and shared work. Martha’s request for her sister to **help** her highlights the importance of mutual support in acts of **service** `{{G1248}}` [[Luke 10:40]].
* **Help for Human Frailty:** The concept is explicitly linked to **infirmities** `{{G769}}`. This help is not for the strong, but for those who are in a state of weakness and cannot proceed alone, whether in prayer or in practical labor [[Romans 8:26]].
### Summary
In summary, **synantilambánomai** `{{G4878}}` provides a specific model of **help** as cooperative action. It is not merely aid given from a distance, but a "taking hold together" to assist with a burden. Whether it is the Holy Spirit interceding for us in our weakness or one believer assisting another in service, the word conveys a partnership in overcoming an obstacle.
TRV