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.
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.
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.
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.
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