The Greek word synthláō, represented by G4917, means to dash together or shatter, and is translated as break. Derived from σύν and thlao (to crush), it appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is specifically used to describe the consequence of a person falling upon a particular stone.
In its biblical usage, G4917 is found in two parallel accounts where Jesus describes the fate of those who interact with a symbolic stone. In both Matthew 21:44 and Luke 20:18, the same statement is made: "Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken." This word describes the initial, damaging outcome for someone who stumbles over the stone. The verse immediately contrasts this with a more severe fate for the one on whom the stone falls, who will be ground to powder.
Several related words provide crucial context for the meaning of synthláō:
- G3037 líthos (a stone): This is the central object in the passages where G4917 appears. The dossier identifies this stone not only as the object one falls upon Matthew 21:44, but also figuratively as the "stumblingstone" Romans 9:33 and the "chief corner stone" rejected by the builders (Matthew 21:42, 1 Peter 2:6).
- G3039 likmáō (grind to powder): This word is used in direct contrast to G4917. In both Matthew 21:44 and Luke 20:18, it describes the ultimate destruction for the one on whom the stone falls, clarifying that being broken is a different and lesser consequence than being ground to powder.
- G4098 píptō (to fall): This word establishes the action that leads to being broken G4917. The verses state that it is the one who shall fall on the stone who is broken (Matthew 21:44, Luke 20:18). This action is used elsewhere to describe falling in worship Revelation 19:10 or stars falling from heaven Matthew 24:29.
The theological weight of G4917 is derived entirely from its specific context regarding the "stone."
- The Rejected Cornerstone: The "stone" that causes one to be broken is identified as the one rejected by the builders which became the "head of the corner" Matthew 21:42. This establishes the stone as a figure of central importance who was nonetheless rejected.
- A Stumbling Block: The stone is also called a "stumblingstone and rock of offence" Romans 9:33. This implies that "falling" on it is an act of stumbling over this figure, leading to the consequence of being broken G4917.
- Two Fates: The use of G4917 helps establish a critical distinction. Stumbling over the stone results in being broken, but having the stone fall upon a person results in being ground to powder Luke 20:18. This presents two different, severe consequences related to one's interaction with the cornerstone.
In summary, G4917 synthláō is a highly specific term for being shattered or broken. Though used only twice, its placement in Matthew 21:44 and Luke 20:18 gives it significant theological meaning. It defines the damaging, but not ultimate, consequence of stumbling over the cornerstone. The word operates in direct contrast to G3039 to illustrate two potential fates, emphasizing the critical importance of one's response to the stone which the builders rejected.
TRV