The Greek word synauxánō, represented by G4885, means to increase (grow up) together. It is formed from the words σύν and αὐξάνω. This term is exceptionally specific, appearing only 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible, giving its single use a focused importance.
The sole appearance of G4885 is in the Parable of the Tares, where the master of the field gives a specific instruction concerning the wheat and the tares that have been sown. The command is to "Let both grow together until the harvest" Matthew 13:30. This context establishes a clear picture of two different types of entities developing simultaneously in the same space, with a definite endpoint for their shared growth.
Several related words in the passage help to define the meaning and consequence of this shared growth:
- G863 aphíēmi (let): This word, meaning to "leave, let (alone, be, go, have)," is used to issue the command, signifying a deliberate allowance for this period of coexistence to occur.
- G2326 therismós (harvest): This term for "reaping, i.e. the crop" sets the time limit for the period of growing together. The dossier explains elsewhere that "the harvest is the end of the world" Matthew 13:39.
- G2327 theristḗs (reaper): Meaning "a harvester," this word identifies those who will end the period of co-growth. These reapers are later identified as "the angels" Matthew 13:39.
- G4816 syllégō (gather ye together): This action word, meaning "to collect," describes the process of separation that will happen at the harvest, when the tares are gathered first Matthew 13:30.
The theological weight of G4885 is derived entirely from its singular context, highlighting key principles of divine timing and judgment.
- Permitted Coexistence: The command to let the wheat and tares grow together illustrates a period where opposing forces are allowed to exist side-by-side until a future, appointed time Matthew 13:30.
- Deferred Separation: Action is intentionally postponed until "the time of harvest," indicating that judgment is not always immediate but is scheduled according to a divine timetable.
- Final and Decisive Action: The period of growing together concludes with a definitive separation carried out by reapers, who are instructed to gather the tares for burning and the wheat for the barn Matthew 13:30.
In summary, G4885 provides a specific and powerful image within biblical teaching. While used only once, synauxánō is central to understanding the Parable of the Tares, encapsulating the concept of a divinely permitted period of coexistence that precedes a final and absolute separation. It underscores a theme of patience within God's plan, where a shared time of growth is allowed before the final harvest.
TRV