The Greek word synephístēmi, represented by G4911, means to stand up together. It is a compound word derived from σύν and ἐφίστημι, carrying the specific meaning of resisting or assaulting jointly. This term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application.
The sole biblical use of G4911 is found in Acts 16:22. The verse describes a moment of collective hostility where a multitude G3793 rose up together against G2596 them. This joint uprising prompts the local magistrates G4755 to violently intervene, commanding that the targets of the mob be beaten. The word captures the unified, spontaneous action of a crowd turning hostile.
Several related words from its single context illuminate the scene:
- G3793 óchlos: defined as a throng, multitude, or rabble. This word identifies the group that acts in unison in the primary verse Acts 16:22. It can also refer to a large crowd following Jesus Matthew 9:36 or a great assembly in heaven Revelation 19:1.
- G2596 katá: a primary particle often meaning against. In the context of Acts 16:22, it denotes the opposition of the multitude. It is also used to mean "according to," as in living "according to his purpose" Romans 8:28.
- G4755 stratēgós: meaning a magistrate or captain. These are the authorities who react to the crowd's uprising by ordering a beating Acts 16:22. This term is also used for the captain of the temple guard Acts 4:1.
- G4048 perirrhḗgnymi: meaning to tear all around, i.e. completely away. This action is performed by the magistrates who rend off the clothes of the accused, immediately preceding the command to beat them Acts 16:22.
- G4463 rhabdízō: defined as to strike with a stick, i.e. bastinado. This is the specific action commanded by the magistrates following the crowd's unified assault Acts 16:22. Paul mentions being "beaten with rods" three times, using this same word 2 Corinthians 11:25.
While G4911 is used only once, its context in Acts 16:22 highlights several important concepts related to the challenges faced in the early church.
- Unified Hostility: The word's primary force is to show a group acting as a single entity. The multitude does not merely gather; they rise up together, indicating a shared intent and collective assault.
- Catalyst for Persecution: The action described by synephístēmi is the direct trigger for the official punishment that follows. The mob's joint uprising incites the magistrates to act, demonstrating how public unrest can lead to physical persecution Acts 16:22.
- Civil Disturbance: The scene captures a moment of intense social and civil disorder. The term paints a picture of a riotous crowd whose joint action creates chaos, culminating in a violent response from the authorities.
In summary, G4911 is a highly specific Greek term that, despite appearing only once, offers a potent description of unified opposition. It means to rise up together in a joint assault. Its sole usage in scripture captures the volatile moment when a crowd turns into a mob, acting as one to instigate violence and persecution against others, as seen in the events of Acts 16:22.
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