### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **systoichéō**, represented by `{{G4960}}`, is derived from terms meaning to file together, like soldiers in ranks. It is used figuratively to mean to correspond to or **answer to**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G4960}}` occurs in an allegorical argument in [[Galatians 4:25]]. In this verse, the apostle Paul draws a direct parallel, stating that Hagar, represented as **Agar** `{{G28}}`, corresponds to or "**answereth to**" the earthly Jerusalem of his day. This correspondence is rooted in the idea that both represent a covenant associated with **mount** `{{G3735}}` **Sinai** `{{G4614}}` **in** `{{G1722}}` **Arabia** `{{G688}}`. This entire system, Paul argues, is one that "**is in bondage**" `{{G1398}}` along **with** `{{G3326}}` **her** `{{G846}}` **children** `{{G5043}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context illuminate the meaning of `{{G4960}}`:
* `{{G28}}` **Ágar**: This is the Greek rendering of Hagar, Abraham's concubine. In the allegory, she is presented as a figure representing the covenant from Mount Sinai that "gendereth to bondage" [[Galatians 4:24]].
* `{{G1398}}` **douleúō**: This word means "to be a slave to" or "**be in bondage**." Its use in [[Galatians 4:25]] defines the spiritual condition of the covenant to which Hagar corresponds. This contrasts with the calling to liberty where believers are to "**serve** one another" through love [[Galatians 5:13]].
* `{{G2419}}` **Hierousalḗm**: The city of **Jerusalem**. In this context, it refers to the earthly city, which `{{G4960}}` aligns with Hagar and bondage [[Galatians 4:25]]. This is distinct from the heavenly **Jerusalem** mentioned elsewhere as the city of the living God [[Hebrews 12:22]].
* `{{G4614}}` **Sinâ**: The Greek name for **Sinai**, the mountain where the Law was given. It is geographically placed **in** `{{G1722}}` **Arabia** `{{G688}}` and is the source of the covenant that Paul identifies with bondage [[Galatians 4:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4960}}` is centered on its role in clarifying the two covenants.
* **Allegorical Correspondence:** The word's primary function is to establish a direct, rank-and-file alignment. It links Hagar `{{G28}}`, Mount Sinai `{{G4614}}`, and the earthly **Jerusalem** `{{G2419}}` as parts of the same system [[Galatians 4:25]].
* **Covenant of Bondage:** By creating this correspondence, `{{G4960}}` serves to define the nature of the old covenant given at Sinai. It "**answereth to**" a state of being "**in bondage**" `{{G1398}}`, a key theme in Paul's argument against legalism.
* **The Two Jerusalems:** The use of `{{G4960}}` is crucial for distinguishing between the earthly "**Jerusalem which now is**" `{{G3568}}` and is in bondage, and the "new **Jerusalem**" which represents freedom and the promise of God [[Revelation 3:12]].
### Summary
In summary, while **systoichéō** `{{G4960}}` appears only once, its role is pivotal. It is the linchpin in Paul's allegory in Galatians, serving to "file together" Hagar, Mount Sinai, and the earthly Jerusalem into a single category representing the covenant of law that leads to bondage. Through this powerful correspondence, the word sharpens the contrast between the covenant of the flesh and the covenant of promise.
TRV