### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun "συνδρομή" (syndromḗ), Strong's number `{{G4890}}`, is derived from the verb "συντρέχω" (syntrechō, `{{G4936}}`), meaning "to run together" or "to run with." The prefix "συν-" (syn-) signifies "with" or "together," while the root "δρόμος" (dromos) refers to "a running" or "a course." Thus, "συνδρομή" fundamentally denotes "a running together" or "a concourse." The base definition specifies that this "running together" often implies a "riotous" or tumultuous gathering. It describes a swift, collective convergence of people, often indicating a spontaneous, agitated, or even unruly assembly rather than an organized meeting. The term captures the dynamic movement and collective momentum of a crowd.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
"συνδρομή" (syndromḗ) appears only once in the New Testament, but its singular use is highly illustrative and impactful:
* **[[Acts 21:30]]**: "And all the city was stirred up, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut."
In this passage, the term describes the immediate and violent reaction of the populace in Jerusalem to the false accusation that Paul had brought Gentiles into the sacred temple area. The phrase "the people ran together" translates "συνδρομή ἐγένετο," literally "a running together occurred." This was not a calm assembly but a sudden, agitated rush of an angry mob. The word emphasizes the speed, spontaneity, and collective fury with which the crowd converged upon Paul, leading to his seizure and the imminent threat of violence. The use of "συνδρομή" here vividly conveys the chaotic and dangerous atmosphere, highlighting the unified, though misguided, intent of the crowd to apprehend Paul.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G4936}}` συντρέχω (syntrechō)**: The verbal root of "συνδρομή," meaning "to run together" or "to concur." This verb is used in contexts such as running a race with others (e.g., [[Galatians 2:2]]) or people running together to a specific place or event (e.g., [[Mark 6:33]]). "συνδρομή" is the noun form, capturing the *result* or *state* of this collective running.
* **`{{G3793}}` ὄχλος (ochlos)**: A common Greek word for "crowd" or "multitude." While "ὄχλος" refers to the *group* itself, "συνδρομή" emphasizes the *action* or *process* of their coming together, often implying a more dynamic, spontaneous, or even disorderly formation of the crowd.
* **`{{G2351}}` θόρυβος (thorybos)**: Signifies "uproar," "commotion," or "noise," often associated with a disorderly crowd or riot (e.g., [[Acts 20:1]]). A "συνδρομή" (concourse) can often lead to or be accompanied by "θόρυβος" (uproar).
* **`{{G4714}}` στάσις (stasis)**: Can mean "a standing," but also "a dissension," "insurrection," or "riot" (e.g., [[Acts 19:40]]). A "συνδρομή" could potentially escalate into a "στάσις."
### Theological Significance
Though occurring only once, "συνδρομή" (syndromḗ) in [[Acts 21:30]] carries significant theological implications. It starkly illustrates the volatile nature of human crowds, particularly when incited by misinformation, prejudice, or religious fervor. This incident underscores the intense hostility and resistance that the early Christian message often encountered, especially when it challenged deeply ingrained cultural or religious traditions. The "running together" of the crowd signifies a unified, albeit misguided, opposition to Paul and, by extension, to the Gospel he proclaimed.
The term highlights the immediate danger faced by missionaries and the potential for mob violence fueled by misunderstanding or malicious intent. Theologically, it serves as a powerful reminder of the human capacity for collective irrationality and the ease with which large groups can be swayed to violence, a recurring theme in biblical narratives concerning the treatment of prophets, Jesus Himself, and His apostles. It also implicitly points to the providential protection Paul received amidst such overwhelming and sudden opposition.
### Summary
"συνδρομή" (syndromḗ, `{{G4890}}`) is a Greek noun meaning "a running together" or "a concourse," derived from the verb "συντρέχω" (syntrechō, `{{G4936}}`). It describes a rapid and often tumultuous convergence of people, implying a spontaneous and potentially riotous assembly. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Acts 21:30]] vividly portrays the immediate and angry mob that gathered around Paul in Jerusalem, highlighting the danger and collective fury he faced. This word powerfully conveys the dynamic and often perilous nature of human crowds, underscoring the intense opposition and potential for violence encountered by early Christian evangelists in their mission to proclaim the Gospel.
TRV