### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **systasiastḗs**, represented by `{{G4955}}`, refers to **a fellow-insurgent**. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. The word is derived from components meaning "with" and "insurrection," clearly defining an individual who participates in a rebellion alongside others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4955}}` occurs in the description of Barabbas. The narrative states there was a man named Barabbas who was bound with his **fellow-insurgents**. This group was imprisoned because they had committed murder during their insurrection [[Mark 15:7]]. The word uniquely identifies Barabbas not as a lone criminal, but as part of a collective, rebellious movement that had resulted in deadly violence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its immediate context clarify the meaning of `{{G4955}}`:
* `{{G4714}}` **stásis** (dissension, insurrection, X standing, uproar): This is the root concept from which **systasiastḗs** is derived. It describes the uprising itself, an act of popular rebellion or sedition [[Luke 23:25]]. The term can also refer to a "dissension" or sharp disagreement [[Acts 15:2]].
* `{{G1210}}` **déō** (to bind): This word describes the consequence of the insurrection, as Barabbas and his companions lay **bound** in prison [[Mark 15:7]]. It is used both for literal binding with chains [[Colossians 4:3]] and figuratively for spiritual authority [[Matthew 16:19]].
* `{{G5408}}` **phónos** (murder): This specifies the grave crime committed during the insurrection. The rebellion was not merely a protest but involved **murder** [[Mark 15:7]]. This word is consistently used to denote the taking of human life [[Matthew 15:19]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This general verb is used to state that the insurgents had **committed** murder [[Mark 15:7]]. It signifies the execution of an act and is used widely to mean performing or doing something [[Matthew 7:21]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4955}}` is found entirely within its specific narrative role.
* **Collective Crime:** The word emphasizes that Barabbas was not acting alone but was a "fellow-insurgent." This highlights the organized nature of the rebellion and paints a picture of a group of violent conspirators.
* **Nature of the Uprising:** By linking a "fellow-insurgent" directly to the act of insurrection `{{G4714}}` and murder `{{G5408}}`, the term defines the character of the rebellion as both seditious and lethal.
* **The Crowd's Choice:** Its sole use defines the man the crowd chose to release instead of Jesus. They freed a participant in a murderous uprising, drawing a sharp contrast between a man of violent rebellion and the one accused of claiming a peaceful kingdom.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4955}}` is a rare and precise word that, in its single biblical appearance, carries significant narrative weight. As "a fellow-insurgent," it defines Barabbas's identity as part of a group that committed murder during a violent uprising. This specification is crucial for understanding the context of the choice presented to the crowd in [[Mark 15:7]], contrasting a man of violent insurrection with Jesus.
TRV