### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synapothnḗskō**, represented by `{{G4880}}`, means to **die with** or **be dead with** someone. This term, derived from joining "with" and "to die," appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**. While infrequent, its usage powerfully conveys concepts ranging from a literal declaration of loyalty to a figurative, theological identification with Christ's death.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical uses, `{{G4880}}` expresses different dimensions of shared fate. In Mark, Peter makes a vehement, literal promise, stating, "If I should **die with** thee, I will not deny thee" [[Mark 14:31]]. Paul uses the term figuratively to express his profound love for the Corinthian believers, telling them they are in his heart "to **die** and live **with** you" [[2 Corinthians 7:3]]. Theologically, it is presented as a foundational truth in a "faithful saying": "if we **be dead with** him, we shall also live with him" [[2 Timothy 2:11]], establishing a link between shared death and shared life.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of being dead with someone:
* `{{G4800}}` **syzáō** (live with): This is the direct counterpart to `{{G4880}}`, defined as "to continue to live in common with." It is used to show the outcome of dying with Christ, promising that "if we be dead with him, we shall also **live with** him" [[2 Timothy 2:11]].
* `{{G533}}` **aparnéomai** (deny): This word means "to deny utterly, i.e. disown, abstain." It is used in direct contrast to Peter's promise to **die with** Jesus, highlighting the choice between loyalty unto death and disowning someone [[Mark 14:31]].
* `{{G4103}}` **pistós** (faithful): Defined as "trustworthy" or "trustful," this term establishes the certainty of the theological principle that being dead with Christ leads to life with him, introducing it as a "**faithful** saying" [[2 Timothy 2:11]].
* `{{G2633}}` **katákrisis** (condemn): Meaning "sentencing adversely (the act)," Paul uses this word to preface his declaration of commitment, assuring the Corinthians he does not speak "to **condemn** you" before expressing his willingness to die with them [[2 Corinthians 7:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4880}}` is significant, highlighting a core tenet of Christian faith.
* **Identification in Christ's Death:** The primary theological use of the term establishes that a believer's spiritual life is founded on a figurative participation in Christ's death. This is presented as a reliable, "**faithful** saying" [[2 Timothy 2:11]].
* **The Promise of Resurrection Life:** The concept of being "**dead with**" Christ is inextricably linked to the promise of also living with Him `{{G4800}}`. The former is the condition for the latter, forming a foundational promise of salvation [[2 Timothy 2:11]].
* **The Depth of Covenant Love:** Paul’s use of the term demonstrates that the spiritual reality of dying and living with Christ finds a parallel in the church. His willingness to "**die** and live **with**" the believers shows a love that transcends condemnation and reflects Christ's own commitment [[2 Corinthians 7:3]].
* **Human Vow vs. Spiritual Reality:** Peter's passionate but ultimately broken promise to "**die with**" Jesus serves as a powerful illustration of human weakness in contrast to the spiritual transformation required to truly be "dead with" Him [[Mark 14:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4880}}` is a concise but profound term. It spans the spectrum from a fervent human promise of loyalty to the ultimate expression of Christian soteriology. Through its few appearances, **synapothnḗskō** defines the believer's identification with Christ, framing death not as an end but as the necessary precursor to sharing in His life, a principle that also shapes the bonds of love and fellowship within the church.
TRV