from σύν and a derivative of a compound of ἁρμός and λέγω (in its original sense of laying); to render close-jointed together, i.e. organize compactly:--be fitly framed (joined) together.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synarmologéō**, represented by `{{G4883}}`, means **to render close-jointed together** or to organize compactly. This precise term appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, but its imagery conveys a powerful concept of divine and intricate assembly. It describes a process where individual components are perfectly fitted together to form a unified, functional whole.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G4883}}` present complementary metaphors for the church. In [[Ephesians 2:21]], it is used in an architectural sense, where "all the **building** fitly framed together" grows into a holy temple in the Lord. This depicts believers as parts of a spiritual structure designed by God. In contrast, [[Ephesians 4:16]] uses it in a biological sense, describing "the whole **body** fitly joined together and compacted" where every part contributes to the growth and edification of the whole in love.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the concept of divine assembly and unity:
* `{{G4822}}` **symbibázō** (to drive together, i.e. unite (in association or affection), (mentally) to infer, show, teach): This word is used alongside `{{G4883}}` in [[Ephesians 4:16]] to describe how the body is "compacted," reinforcing the idea of a tightly-knit, cohesive unit.
* `{{G3619}}` **oikodomḗ** (architecture, i.e. (concretely) a structure; figuratively, confirmation): This is the "building" that is "fitly framed together" in [[Ephesians 2:21]] and the "edifying" that results from the body's growth in [[Ephesians 4:16]], linking both metaphors.
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma** (the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively): This word for "body" is the subject of the action in [[Ephesians 4:16]], representing the church as a living, interconnected organism.
* `{{G860}}` **haphḗ** (probably a ligament (as fastening)): This word for "joint" is what supplies the body in [[Ephesians 4:16]], highlighting that every single connection point is vital for the whole structure.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4883}}` is significant for understanding ecclesiology, the doctrine of the church.
* **Divine Architecture:** The term illustrates that the church is not a human organization but a divine project. Believers are being built into a "holy **temple** in the **Lord**" (`{{G3485}}`, `{{G2962}}`), a dwelling place for God [[Ephesians 2:21]].
* **Organic Unity:** The image of the body being "fitly joined together" emphasizes the interdependence of believers. The growth of the whole body is dependent on the "effectual working" `{{G1753}}` of every individual part [[Ephesians 4:16]].
* **Christ as the Source:** Both occurrences point to Christ as the agent of this joining. In one verse, it is "In whom" the building is framed [[Ephesians 2:21]], and in the other, it is "From whom" the whole body receives its structure and supply [[Ephesians 4:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4883}}` provides a rich and detailed picture of the church's unity. Though used infrequently, it powerfully communicates that believers are neither a random collection of individuals nor a rigid institution. Instead, they are being actively and perfectly joined together by Christ, forming a single, living structure—a holy temple and a complete body—that grows and functions as one.
TRV