### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **syntíthemai**, represented by `{{G4934}}`, is a middle voice verb meaning to place jointly, or figuratively, to consent, bargain, stipulate, or concur. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, often in contexts of conspiracy or formal agreement with significant consequences.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{G4934}}` describes agreements made with hostile intent. It is used when the chief priests and scribes **covenanted** to give Judas **money** `{{G694}}` to betray Jesus [[Luke 22:5]]. The word also depicts a plot where the **Jews** `{{G2453}}` **agreed** to ask for Paul to be brought before the **council** `{{G4892}}` under the pretense of a more perfect inquiry [[Acts 23:20]]. Similarly, it is used when the Jews **agreed** that anyone who did **confess** `{{G3670}}` that Jesus was the **Christ** `{{G5547}}` would be **put out of the synagogue** `{{G656}}` [[John 9:22]]. Finally, it describes how the Jews **assented** to accusations made against Paul, **saying** `{{G5335}}` that **these things** `{{G5023}}` were true [[Acts 24:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of the agreements made using `{{G4934}}`:
* `{{G3670}}` **homologéō** (to assent, i.e. covenant, acknowledge): This word for confessing is directly linked to an agreement using `{{G4934}}`. The Jews **agreed** `{{G4934}}` on a punishment for anyone who would **confess** `{{G3670}}` Christ [[John 9:22]].
* `{{G2065}}` **erōtáō** (to interrogate; by implication, to request): The agreement made by the Jews against Paul was specifically to **desire** `{{G2065}}` his presence before the council, forming the basis of their conspiracy [[Acts 23:20]].
* `{{G4892}}` **synédrion** (a joint session, i.e. (specially), the Jewish Sanhedrin; by analogy, a subordinate tribunal): This term denotes the formal setting for which an agreement was made. The plot against Paul involved an agreement to bring him into the **council** `{{G4892}}` [[Acts 23:20]].
* `{{G694}}` **argýrion** (money, (piece of) silver): This highlights the transactional nature of a covenant. The agreement with Judas was a covenant to give him **money** `{{G694}}` in exchange for his betrayal [[Luke 22:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4934}}` is found in its consistent use to describe human pacts formed in opposition to divine will.
* **Covenant of Betrayal:** The word is used for the infamous covenant to betray Jesus. The chief priests and scribes **covenanted** `{{G4934}}` with Judas, sealing their plan with the promise of **money** `{{G694}}` [[Luke 22:5]].
* **Agreement for Persecution:** It defines the formal policy of excommunication against early believers. The Jews **agreed** `{{G4934}}` to cast out anyone from the synagogue who confessed Jesus as the **Christ** `{{G5547}}`, an act of organized opposition to the faith [[John 9:22]].
* **Conspiracies Against the Church:** The term appears twice in Acts to describe plots against the apostle Paul. The Jews **agreed** `{{G4934}}` on a deceptive plan to bring him to the council [[Acts 23:20]] and later **assented** `{{G4934}}` to false accusations against him [[Acts 24:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4934}}` is not a word for neutral or positive agreements in the biblical text. Instead, it consistently highlights covenants and conspiracies directed against Jesus and his followers. From the pact to betray the Son of God to the organized persecution of the early church, **syntíthemai** illustrates how humanity can place itself jointly in opposition to divine righteousness, forming agreements unified in their destructive purpose.
TRV