### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sýndesmos**, represented by `{{G4886}}`, translates as a **bond** or **band**. Its base definition is "a joint tie, i.e. ligament, (figuratively) uniting principle, control," derived from the words σύν and δεσμόν. It is a rare term, appearing only **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, yet it carries significant weight in describing forces of both unity and control.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4886}}` illustrates concepts of connection, both positive and negative. It is used to describe the essential elements that hold believers together, such as the " **bond** of peace" which maintains the unity of the Spirit [[Ephesians 4:3]]. In a similar positive light, love, or charity, is identified as "the **bond** of perfectness" [[Colossians 3:14]]. The term also appears in an anatomical metaphor for the Church, where the body is nourished and "knit together" through "joints and **bands**" connected to the Head [[Colossians 2:19]]. Conversely, it can denote spiritual imprisonment, as when a person is perceived to be in "the **bond** of iniquity" [[Acts 8:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G4886}}` is used:
* `{{G1515}}` **eirḗnē** (peace): Defined as "peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity," it is the unifying element secured by the "bond" in [[Ephesians 4:3]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love): This word for "love, i.e. affection or benevolence" is explicitly identified *as* the "bond of perfectness," highlighting its supreme role in spiritual completeness [[Colossians 3:14]].
* `{{G93}}` **adikía** (iniquity): In contrast to the positive connections, this term for "wrongfulness" is what constitutes the "bond" in [[Acts 8:23]], signifying a state of being tied to sin.
* `{{G860}}` **haphḗ** (joint): Defined as "probably a ligament (as fastening)," this word is used alongside "bands" `{{G4886}}` to describe the structural connections within the body of Christ [[Colossians 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4886}}` is centered on the nature of spiritual connection.
* **Spiritual Unity:** The term emphasizes that true spiritual unity is not passive but is actively maintained by divine "bonds." Peace and love are not merely feelings but are the very ligaments that hold the church together in a state of "perfectness" and "unity of the Spirit" ([[Ephesians 4:3]], [[Colossians 3:14]]).
* **Ecclesial Interdependence:** The imagery of the body being held together by "joints and **bands**" shows that the Church's health and growth are dependent on its connection to Christ, the Head, and the proper function of these connective elements among its members [[Colossians 2:19]].
* **The Bondage of Sin:** The use of `{{G4886}}` in [[Acts 8:23]] provides a crucial counterpoint. It illustrates that just as believers can be bound together in righteousness, individuals can be bound by "iniquity," highlighting sin's power to control and hold a person captive.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4886}}` is a versatile word that conveys a powerful figurative meaning of a "bond" or "ligament." While appearing infrequently, it is used to define the most essential principles of Christian life. It powerfully illustrates that which unites believers to God and to each other—peace and love—as well as that which can bind a soul in sin, showing the profound nature of the forces that connect or control us.
TRV