### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term συνωμοσία (synōmosía - `{{G4945}}`) is a compound word derived from σύν (syn - `{{G4862}}`), meaning "with" or "together," and ὀμνύω (omnyō - `{{G3660}}`), meaning "to swear" or "to take an oath." Therefore, its literal meaning is "a swearing together" or "a joint oath." This etymological root underscores a binding agreement made by multiple parties, often in secrecy. By implication, and as evidenced in its biblical usage, συνωμοσία refers to a plot, a conspiracy, or a secret compact, typically one formed for malicious, subversive, or violent purposes. The "oath" component emphasizes the solemn and committed nature of the agreement among the conspirators, making it more than a mere plan but a deeply entrenched and binding scheme.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term συνωμοσία (synōmosía - `{{G4945}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 23:13]]. This singular occurrence is highly significant for understanding its specific nuance. The context is the dramatic account of the Apostle Paul's trial in Jerusalem, where he faces intense opposition from Jewish leaders. [[Acts 23:12-14]] describes how "more than forty men formed a conspiracy [συνωμοσία] and bound themselves by an oath neither to eat nor to drink until they had killed Paul." This passage vividly illustrates the core meaning of the word:
1. **Collective Action:** "More than forty men" highlights the σύν (together) aspect.
2. **Binding Oath:** "Bound themselves by an oath" directly reflects the ὀμνύω (to swear) component, emphasizing the solemn and unbreakable commitment they believed they were making.
3. **Malicious Intent:** Their stated purpose, "neither to eat nor to drink until they had killed Paul," unequivocally reveals the sinister and murderous nature of their plot.
The use of συνωμοσία here underscores the gravity and premeditation of their act, portraying it not as a spontaneous outburst but as a deeply committed, oath-bound scheme of violence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding συνωμοσία (synōmosía - `{{G4945}}`) is enhanced by examining related Greek and Hebrew terms:
* **σύν (syn - `{{G4862}}`):** The preposition "with" or "together," fundamental to the concept of joint action inherent in συνωμοσία.
* **ὀμνύω (omnyō - `{{G3660}}`):** The verb "to swear" or "to take an oath," highlighting the solemn and binding nature of the conspirators' agreement.
* **ἐπιβουλή (epiboulē - `{{G1917}}`):** Meaning "a plot" or "a treacherous design," as seen in [[Acts 20:3]] regarding a plot against Paul. While ἐπιβουλή focuses on the malicious design itself, συνωμοσία specifically emphasizes the *oath-bound* nature of the plot.
* **δόλος (dolos - `{{G1388}}`):** Signifying "deceit," "guile," or "treachery." Conspiracies often involve δόλος in their execution.
* **Hebrew Parallel: קֶשֶׁר (qesher - `{{H7195}}`):** This Old Testament term frequently translates to "conspiracy" or "treason," particularly in the books of Kings and Chronicles, often referring to political plots against rulers (e.g., [[2 Kings 11:14]], [[Isaiah 8:12]]). קֶשֶׁר shares the negative connotation of a secret, rebellious, and often violent scheme, much like συνωμοσία.
### Theological Significance
The single biblical occurrence of συνωμοσία (synōmosía - `{{G4945}}`) carries profound theological implications:
* **Human Depravity and Malice:** The formation of such an oath-bound conspiracy to murder reflects the depth of human depravity and the capacity for organized, premeditated evil. It stands as a stark reminder of the fallen human heart's potential for hatred and violence.
* **Opposition to God's Redemptive Plan:** The conspiracy against Paul was not merely an attack on an individual but an attempt to silence a key apostle and thus impede the spread of the Gospel. From a divine perspective, it was an act of rebellion against God's sovereign will and His redemptive purposes in Christ.
* **Divine Sovereignty Over Human Schemes:** Despite the formidable nature of the συνωμοσία against Paul, God's providence intervened. Through Paul's nephew and the Roman commander, the plot was revealed and thwarted ([[Acts 23:16-22]]). This demonstrates that even the most solemn and determined human conspiracies cannot ultimately override or derail God's sovereign plan. God's purposes will prevail, often through unexpected means.
* **Caution Against Unholy Oaths:** While not a direct prohibition, the negative portrayal of συνωμοσία serves as a cautionary tale regarding the danger of binding oneself to secret, ungodly oaths or agreements. Such commitments, when motivated by malice or rebellion against righteousness, are condemned by their very nature and outcome.
### Summary
συνωμοσία (synōmosía - `{{G4945}}`) denotes a "swearing together," signifying a binding, oath-bound plot or conspiracy. Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 23:13]] vividly portrays a malicious agreement among more than forty Jews to assassinate the Apostle Paul. Rooted in σύν (together) and ὀμνύω (to swear), the term emphasizes both the collective nature and the solemn, often sinister, commitment of the participants. Semantically, it aligns with concepts of treachery and premeditated evil, contrasting sharply with divine purpose and righteous conduct. Theologically, συνωμοσία serves as a stark reminder of human depravity and the forces of opposition against God's servants, yet it simultaneously underscores the ultimate triumph of divine sovereignty over even the most determined human conspiracies. It highlights the gravity of oaths taken for ungodly ends and the vigilance required against such dark machinations.
TRV