### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **syntynchánō**, represented by `{{G4940}}`, means to chance together, or to meet with or reach someone. Its base definition is to come at. This word is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4940}}` occurs in a narrative moment describing the immense crowds surrounding Jesus. In this instance, his mother `{{G3384}}` and brethren `{{G80}}` came `{{G3854}}` to see him but were physically unable to reach him. The scripture states they "could `{{G1410}}` not `{{G3756}}` **come at** him for `{{G1223}}` the press `{{G3793}}`" [[Luke 8:19]]. The word captures the failed attempt to make contact due to a physical obstruction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage help to frame the meaning of `{{G4940}}`:
* `{{G3854}}` **paragínomai** (come): This word means to become near or approach. It shows that the family successfully arrived at the location but could not complete the final act of meeting Jesus.
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos** (press): Defined as a throng or multitude, this word identifies the specific barrier preventing the family from reaching Jesus.
* `{{G1410}}` **dýnamai** (could/be able): Meaning to be able or possible, this word, paired with the negative "not" `{{G3756}}`, explicitly states the family's inability to perform the action of `{{G4940}}`.
### Theological Significance
While rare, the use of `{{G4940}}` provides a clear illustration of a key theme in Jesus's ministry:
* **Physical Barriers to Jesus:** The word's only context is one of a physical impediment. The press of the crowd `{{G3793}}` created a situation where even Jesus's closest family "could not **come at** him" [[Luke 8:19]], highlighting the intense public demand that surrounded his life.
* **The Distinction Between Arrival and Access:** The family's journey shows a difference between arriving near Jesus `{{G3854}}` and actually reaching him `{{G4940}}`. Their attempt was stopped short, emphasizing the difficulty in gaining personal access to him.
* **A Picture of Inability:** The explicit statement that they "could not" `{{G1410}}` `{{G3756}}` succeed underscores human limitation. This same language of inability is used in other contexts, such as the spiritual inability to see God's kingdom without being born again [[John 3:3]] or the impossibility of serving two masters [[Matthew 6:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4940}}` is a specific term whose meaning is precisely defined by its single appearance. It paints a vivid picture of the physical reality of Jesus's ministry, where the sheer number of people drawn to him formed a barrier. The word marks the point of failure in an attempt to make contact, distinguishing between simple proximity and a successful meeting. It serves as a narrative detail that underscores the overwhelming press of the crowds that constantly surrounded Jesus.
TRV