### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sýneimi**, represented by `{{G4896}}`, means **to assemble** or **gather together**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Derived from σύν (with) and εἶμι (to go), it describes the specific act of a group coming together in one place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4896}}` is found in Luke's Gospel, where it describes a scene of great anticipation. A **much** `{{G4183}}` **people** `{{G3793}}` **were gathered together** `{{G4896}}` and had **come** `{{G1975}}` to Jesus from every **city** `{{G4172}}`. This assembly forms the audience for one of his teachings, as he then **spake** `{{G2036}}` to them by a **parable** `{{G3850}}` [[Luke 8:4]]. The word captures the culmination of many individuals' journeys into a single, focused crowd.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of the assembly:
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos** (a throng): This word identifies the subject of the gathering—not just a few people, but a **multitude** or **press**. This is the group that **were gathered together** `{{G4896}}`.
* `{{G1975}}` **epiporeúomai** (to journey further, i.e. travel on (reach)): This verb describes the action that precedes the gathering. The people had to **come** or travel to reach Jesus' location [[Luke 8:4]].
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (city): This specifies the origin of the crowd. The gathering was not a local event but drew people from every **city** [[Luke 8:4]], highlighting the widespread interest in Jesus' ministry.
### Theological Significance
Though used only once, the theological significance of `{{G4896}}` is rooted in its context:
* **The draw of Christ's teaching:** The people **were gathered together** `{{G4896}}` for a specific purpose: to hear Jesus **speak** `{{G2036}}`. Their assembly was a direct response to the authority and appeal of his words, delivered in a **parable** `{{G3850}}`.
* **The formation of a following:** The action of gathering creates a **multitude** `{{G3793}}`. This physical assembly around Jesus is a visible manifestation of his growing influence and the formation of a community drawn to him.
* **A deliberate pilgrimage:** The components of the word and the context of people coming from every **city** `{{G4172}}` imply a conscious and purposeful act. This was not an accidental crowd, but a group of seekers who intentionally came **to him** `{{G4314}}` `{{G846}}` [[Luke 8:4]].
### Summary
In summary, **sýneimi** `{{G4896}}` provides a concise and vivid description of a crowd assembling. While it appears only once, its use in [[Luke 8:4]] is pivotal, capturing the moment a diverse group of people from many cities became a unified **multitude**, drawn together by the desire to hear the teachings of Jesus. It illustrates how a specific action—gathering together—is foundational to receiving divine instruction.
TRV