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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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