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 verb συναρμολογέω (synarmologéō, `{{G4883}}`) is a compound word rich in meaning, derived from σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`, "with, together"), ἁρμός (harmos, `{{G719}}`, "a joint, fitting"), and the root of λέγω (legō, `{{G3004}}`) in its original sense of "to lay" or "to arrange." Thus, its core meaning is "to fit together with joints," "to join compactly," or "to frame together precisely." The word conveys the idea of a meticulous and intentional assembly, where individual components are interlocked to form a cohesive and structurally sound whole. It implies not merely a loose connection but a tight, integrated union, often in the context of construction or an organic body. The semantic range extends to the process of organizing something compactly and efficiently, highlighting the interdependence and proper alignment of parts within a larger structure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term συναρμολογέω appears exclusively twice in the New Testament, both times in the Epistle to the Ephesians, where it is central to Paul's metaphors for the Church:
1. **[[Ephesians 2:21]]:** "in whom the whole structure, being συναρμολογούμενος (fitly framed together), grows into a holy temple in the Lord."
Here, the Church is depicted as a spiritual building (οἰκοδομή), with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone. The individual believers are the "living stones" (cf. [[1 Peter 2:5]]) that are being precisely and continuously fitted together by divine agency. The present participle συναρμολογούμενος emphasizes an ongoing process of construction and integration. This "fitting together" is not static but dynamic, leading to growth (αὔξει) into a holy temple, indicating a living, developing edifice dedicated to God. The precision of the "framing" ensures the integrity and sacredness of this spiritual dwelling place.
2. **[[Ephesians 4:16]]:** "from whom the whole body, συναρμολογούμενον (fitly joined together) and συμβιβαζόμενον (knit together) by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love."
In this passage, Paul employs the metaphor of the Church as a human body, with Christ as the Head. συναρμολογέω is paired with συμβιβάζω (symbibazō, `{{G4887}}`, "to knit together, unite"), reinforcing the idea of a tightly integrated and cohesive organism. The emphasis is on the intricate connection of all parts, facilitated by "every joint" (ἁφή, `{{G860}}`). The proper functioning and growth of the entire body depend on the precise fitting and active contribution of each individual part. This highlights the interdependence and mutual support essential for the Church's healthy development and self-edification in love.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of συναρμολογέω is enriched by examining its relationship with several other key terms and theological concepts:
* **σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`):** The prefix "together with" is fundamental, underscoring the communal and unified nature of the Church.
* **ἁρμός (harmos, `{{G719}}`):** The root for "joint," emphasizing the precise points of connection and the structural integrity they provide. This is explicitly mentioned in [[Ephesians 4:16]] as ἁφή (haphe, `{{G860}}`), which also means "joint" or "ligament."
* **οἰκοδομέω (oikodomeō, `{{G3618}}`):** "To build, edify." This broader concept of building is the ultimate goal of the "fitly framing" in [[Ephesians 2:21]] and the "building up of itself" in [[Ephesians 4:16]].
* **σῶμα (sōma, `{{G4983}}`):** "Body." This metaphor, particularly prominent in Paul's epistles, is the context for συναρμολογέω in [[Ephesians 4:16]], highlighting the organic unity and interdependence of believers.
* **ναός (naos, `{{G3485}}`):** "Temple." The metaphor in [[Ephesians 2:21]] where the Church is framed as a holy dwelling place for God.
* **συμβιβάζω (symbibazō, `{{G4887}}`):** "To knit together, unite, hold together." This word, often paired with συναρμολογέω, reinforces the idea of strong, intimate connection and cohesion within the body.
* **Unity (ἑνότης, henótēs, `{{G1773}}`):** The concept of unity, particularly the "unity of the Spirit" and the "unity of the faith" ([[Ephesians 4:3]], [[Ephesians 4:13]]), is the overarching theme that συναρμολογέω vividly illustrates in practice.
* **Interdependence and Mutual Contribution:** The precise fitting of parts implies that each part is essential and contributes to the overall function and health of the whole.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of συναρμολογέω is profound, illuminating key aspects of ecclesiology and the nature of the Christian community:
1. **Divine Architecture and Agency:** The word underscores that the Church's formation is not merely a human endeavor but a divine work. It is God who "frames" and "joins" believers together in Christ. The passive voice of the participle ("being fitly framed") points to God's active role as the master builder and designer. This implies a purposeful, intelligent, and perfect design for His Church.
2. **Organic Unity and Cohesion:** συναρμολογέω vividly portrays the Church as a unified, living entity, whether as a growing temple or a functioning body. It moves beyond a simple collection of individuals to describe a deeply integrated and interdependent community. This unity is not superficial but structural, based on the precise fitting of diverse parts.
3. **Growth and Vitality:** The "fitly framed" structure is not static but dynamic, characterized by growth. In [[Ephesians 2:21]], the temple "grows," and in [[Ephesians 4:16]], the body "causes the growth." This implies that proper integration and function are prerequisites for healthy spiritual development and expansion of the Church.
4. **Purposeful Interdependence:** The precision of the "joints" highlights that each member, with their unique gifts and functions, is indispensable. The health and effectiveness of the whole depend on the proper placement and working of every individual part. This calls believers to recognize their vital role and to contribute to the common good, fostering mutual care and support.
5. **Christocentricity:** Both occurrences of συναρμολογέω are deeply rooted in Christ. The temple is "in the Lord" ([[Ephesians 2:21]]), and the body grows "from whom" (Christ, [[Ephesians 4:16]]). Christ is the source, the foundation, and the unifying principle by which the Church is perfectly joined together.
### Summary
The Greek word συναρμολογέω (synarmologéō, `{{G4883}}`) precisely describes the intricate, intentional, and ongoing process of "fitting together with joints" or "framing compactly." In its two New Testament occurrences within Ephesians, it serves as a powerful descriptor for the Church, illustrating its nature as both a spiritual temple and a living body. The term emphasizes the divine agency in meticulously integrating diverse believers into a cohesive, structurally sound, and growing entity. It highlights the essential interdependence of each member, whose proper placement and function are crucial for the overall unity, health, and spiritual growth of the Christian community. Ultimately, συναρμολογέω underscores God's purposeful design for His Church, built and sustained in and through Christ, for His glory.
TRV