### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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