from σύν and ἔρχομαι; to convene, depart in company with, associate with, or (specially), cohabit (conjugally):--accompany, assemble (with), come (together), come (company, go) with, resort.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synérchomai**, represented by `{{G4905}}`, fundamentally means to come together. It is formed from the words `{{G4862}}` **sýn**, meaning "with," and `{{G2064}}` **érchomai**, meaning "to come or go." It appears **33 times** across **32 unique verses** and carries a range of meanings, from convening for a meeting and accompanying someone on a journey to the special act of conjugal cohabitation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4905}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It frequently describes the assembly of believers for worship, as when Paul addresses the Corinthian church on their conduct when they "come together" [[1 Corinthians 11:18]]. Large crowds and multitudes also "came together" to hear Jesus [[Luke 5:15]] or in response to miraculous events like Pentecost [[Acts 2:6]]. The word also denotes companionship, such as when brethren "accompanied" Peter from Joppa [[Acts 10:23]]. Finally, it is used in the specific context of marital union, as seen when Mary was found with child "before they came together" with Joseph [[Matthew 1:18]], and when Paul instructs spouses to "come together again" to avoid temptation [[1 Corinthians 7:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G4905}}`:
* `{{G4862}}` **sýn** (with): As the prefix of **synérchomai**, this primary preposition establishes the core idea of union and companionship that defines the act of coming together.
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): This is the root verb of movement. When combined with **sýn**, it specifies the action of moving with others toward a common point or in a shared direction.
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (assembly, church): This is often the subject of the action, as the "church" is the body that is described as needing to "come together" for worship and instruction [[1 Corinthians 11:18]].
* `{{G4978}}` **schísma** (division): This word illustrates a potential negative consequence of gathering improperly. Paul warns the Corinthians that when they "come together in the church," he hears there are "divisions" among them [[1 Corinthians 11:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4905}}` is seen in its application to core aspects of Christian life and community.
* **Corporate Worship:** The act of "coming together" is essential for the church's function of mutual edification through psalms, doctrine, and interpretation [[1 Corinthians 14:26]]. Paul emphasizes that such gatherings must be conducted for the "better" and not for the "worse" [[1 Corinthians 11:17]].
* **Marital Union:** The term is used for the physical intimacy within marriage. Its use in the context of Joseph and Mary establishes a legal and relational milestone [[Matthew 1:18]]. Paul also employs it to instruct married couples to "come together again" after periods of fasting, protecting them from temptation by Satan [[1 Corinthians 7:5]].
* **Missional Fellowship:** The word describes the companionship of believers on missionary journeys. The disciples who "went with" Paul's group [[Acts 21:16]] and the brethren who "accompanied" Peter [[Acts 10:23]] demonstrate that the work of the Gospel was a communal effort.
* **Divine Convening:** The assembling of people is often portrayed as a response to a divine act. Great multitudes "came together" because of the fame of Jesus [[Luke 5:15]], and a crowd gathered at Pentecost after a sound from heaven was noised abroad [[Acts 2:6]], suggesting a divinely orchestrated gathering.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4905}}` is a multifaceted term that goes beyond simple physical proximity. It defines the intentional act of gathering in contexts crucial to faith and life, including church worship, missional travel, and marital intimacy. It underscores the biblical principle that the purpose and manner in which people convene are of great significance, whether it is an entire church assembling for edification or a husband and wife uniting as one.
TRV