### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συνθλάω (synthláō, `{{G4917}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb θλάω (thlao), meaning "to crush" or "to bruise." The combination of these elements intensifies the action of the root verb, conveying a sense of violent, complete breakage. Its core meaning signifies "to crush together," "to dash together," or "to shatter completely." It describes an action that results in the utter fragmentation, pulverization, or total disintegration of an object through impact or immense pressure. Unlike a simple breaking, συνθλάω implies a destructive force leading to irreparable ruin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
συνθλάω (synthláō) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Gospel of Matthew:
* [[Matthew 21:44]]: "And whoever falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; but on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust." (The passive form συνθλασθήσεται is used here).
This verse occurs within Jesus' parable of the wicked tenants, immediately following His quotation of [[Psalm 118:22]], which speaks of the stone rejected by the builders becoming the cornerstone. Jesus applies this prophetic imagery to Himself. The phrase "will be broken to pieces" (συνθλασθήσεται) describes the fate of those who "fall on" the stone. This implies a self-inflicted destruction, where one's own resistance, opposition, or stumbling against Christ leads to their ruin. It is not a mere injury but a complete shattering. The parallel clause, "on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust" (using `{{G3040}}` λικμάω), further amplifies the imagery of total annihilation, suggesting a direct, overwhelming divine judgment that utterly pulverizes those who stand against the Messiah. The singular, powerful use of συνθλάω in this context underscores the severity and finality of the judgment awaiting those who reject or oppose Christ, serving as a stark metaphor for complete spiritual and eschatological ruin.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **θλάω (thlao):** The root verb, meaning "to crush, bruise." While συνθλάω intensifies this, θλάω itself can denote a painful bruising or a less complete form of destruction.
* **συντρίβω (syntribō, `{{G4937}}`):** Another compound with σύν, meaning "to break in pieces, to crush completely." This word is frequently used for breaking objects (e.g., the alabaster flask in [[Mark 14:3]]) or for crushing the power of an enemy (e.g., Satan underfoot in [[Romans 16:20]]). It shares a strong semantic overlap with συνθλάω regarding the idea of complete breakage.
* **κόπτω (koptō, `{{G2875}}`):** "to cut off, strike, beat." While it can imply a breaking, it often refers more to severing or striking an object.
* **ρήγνυμι (rhēgnumi, `{{G4486}}`):** "to break, burst, tear." This word is often used for the tearing of garments, nets, or even the breaking forth of water.
* **λικμάω (likmaō, `{{G3040}}`):** "to winnow, to scatter like dust." This word is used in the parallel clause to συνθλάω in [[Matthew 21:44]], signifying an even more extreme disintegration, reducing something to powder or dust. This highlights the ultimate, irretrievable consequence.
* **The Stone Imagery:** The concept of a "stone" that causes stumbling or crushes is a significant prophetic motif throughout the Old Testament, often referring to the Messiah (e.g., [[Isaiah 8:14]], [[Daniel 2:34-35]], [[Psalm 118:22]]).
### Theological Significance
The singular, emphatic use of συνθλάω in [[Matthew 21:44]] carries profound theological weight, particularly concerning Christology and eschatology.
* **Christ as the Divine Judge:** The "stone" imagery unequivocally points to Jesus as the Messiah, who is not only the cornerstone of salvation but also the immovable object of divine judgment. For those who reject Him, He becomes an instrument of their undoing.
* **Consequences of Rejecting Christ:** The "breaking to pieces" vividly illustrates the severe and destructive consequences of opposing or rejecting God's ultimate revelation in Christ. It implies not merely a setback or a minor injury, but a complete and utter shattering of one's life, hope, or eternal destiny. This destruction is portrayed as a direct result of one's relationship to Christ.
* **Irreversible Judgment:** The nature of being "shattered" or "ground to powder" suggests an irreversible state. There is no reassembly, no recovery, and no escape from this ultimate judgment once it occurs. It speaks to the finality of God's righteous wrath against rebellion.
* **Warning and Call to Repentance:** Implicit in this powerful language is a solemn warning to all who hear it. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of responding appropriately to Christ's person and claims, lest one face utter ruin. It underscores the exclusive and decisive nature of salvation found only in Him. The word highlights the grave peril of unbelief and the certainty of divine retribution.
### Summary
συνθλάω (synthláō, `{{G4917}}`) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to crush together," "to dash together," or "to shatter completely." Formed from σύν ("with, together") and θλάω ("to crush"), it denotes a violent, destructive breaking. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Matthew 21:44]] is within Jesus' parable concerning Himself as the "stone." The word graphically describes the severe consequences for those who reject or oppose Him: to "fall on" this stone results in being "broken to pieces," signifying a self-inflicted spiritual ruin. Furthermore, for the stone to "fall upon" someone and "scatter him like dust" (using `{{G3040}}`) illustrates an ultimate, irresistible divine judgment leading to complete disintegration. Theologically, συνθλάω underscores the absolute, irreversible, and destructive nature of judgment for those who do not embrace Christ as the Cornerstone, serving as a profound warning about the finality of rejecting God's redemptive plan.
TRV