### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **systréphō**, represented by `{{G4962}}`, means to **gather** or to twist together. It is derived from the words σύν and στρέφω. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, signifying a very specific action of collection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4962}}` occurs in a narrative moment involving the apostle Paul. After a shipwreck, Paul **gathered** a bundle of sticks to place on a fire, and it is in this simple, practical act of collecting firewood that the word is used [[Acts 28:3]]. This context highlights the word's literal meaning of collecting or bundling physical objects together.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context provide a fuller picture:
* `{{G4128}}` **plēthos**: Defined as a fulness, throng, or multitude, this word is translated as **bundle** in its connection with `{{G4962}}` [[Acts 28:3]]. Elsewhere, it is used to describe a **multitude** of people, such as the company of believers [[Acts 4:32]] or the heavenly host [[Luke 2:13]].
* `{{G5434}}` **phrýganon**: This term refers to something desiccated, specifically a dry twig or **stick**. Its only appearance in the provided data is in the verse where Paul gathers the bundle of **sticks** [[Acts 28:3]].
* `{{G2007}}` **epitíthēmi**: Meaning to impose or lay upon, this word describes Paul's action of having **laid** the sticks on the fire [[Acts 28:3]]. The word is versatile, also used for laying hands on the sick for healing [[Acts 9:17]] or for adding plagues to those who alter scripture [[Revelation 22:18]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{G4962}}` is drawn from its unique context.
* **Mundane Action, Divine Purpose:** The act of gathering `{{G4962}}` sticks is a simple, practical task. However, this action directly leads to a miraculous event—Paul's survival from a viper's bite—demonstrating how ordinary service can be the stage for divine intervention [[Acts 28:3]].
* **The Act of Collection:** While used for sticks in its only occurrence, the base definition of `{{G4962}}` involves collecting. This idea of bringing things together is echoed in the related word `{{G4128}}` **plēthos**, which is used for both a "bundle" and a "multitude" of people, such as the early church [[Acts 4:32]].
* **Setting the Stage:** The action of gathering `{{G4962}}` and then laying upon `{{G2007}}` the fire sets the stage for the subsequent event. This pairing of actions—collecting and placing—is a precursor to a demonstration of God's power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4962}}` **systréphō** is a term with a straightforward meaning of "to gather." Its single appearance in scripture grounds it in the physical world, describing Paul's collection of firewood. Though not a major theological term on its own, its context reveals a powerful principle: that simple acts of service and practicality can become the very setting for demonstrations of divine power and protection.
TRV