### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Sychém**, represented by `{{G4966}}`, is a proper name of Hebrew origin. It appears 2 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its origin, it refers to both a Canaanite and a place in Palestine, corresponding to the Hebrew Shekem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4966}}` appears in a single verse that recounts a key event in patriarchal history. The verse describes how the patriarchs were **carried over** `{{G3346}}` **into** `{{G1519}}` **Sychém** to be **laid** `{{G5087}}` in a sepulchre there. The passage uses the name for the location and also to identify a person, stating that the tomb was bought from the sons of Emmor, "the father of **Sychem**" [[Acts 7:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding the mention of Sychem:
* `{{G11}}` **Abraám**: This name refers to **Abraham, the Hebrew patriarch**. He is mentioned as the one who **bought** `{{G5608}}` the sepulchre, although a note in the definition suggests the text should probably read Jacob [[Acts 7:16]].
* `{{G1697}}` **Emmór**: This is the name for **Emmor, a Canaanite**. He is identified as the father of Sychem, establishing the lineage from whom the burial plot was purchased [[Acts 7:16]].
* `{{G3418}}` **mnēma**: Meaning a **sepulchral monument (burial-place)**, this word identifies the specific site in Sychem. It was in this **sepulchre** that the patriarchs were laid [[Acts 7:16]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4966}}` is primarily historical and geographical, anchoring the narrative of faith.
* **Patriarchal Heritage:** **Sychém** is presented as a site of immense ancestral importance. The act of carrying the patriarchs to be buried there underscores its role as a foundational place of rest and heritage in Israel's history [[Acts 7:16]].
* **Transactional Ownership:** The narrative highlights that the tomb in **Sychém** was **bought** `{{G5608}}` for a **sum of money** `{{G5092}}`. This detail of a formal purchase from the "sons of Emmor" establishes a legitimate claim and ownership.
* **Historical Landmark:** The use of **Sychém** connects the history of God's people to a specific, named location and to the Canaanite people who inhabited it, grounding the story in a tangible historical and geographical context.
### Summary
In summary, **Sychém** `{{G4966}}` serves as a crucial geographical and genealogical marker in the biblical record. Though its usage is rare, it plays a vital role in the account of Acts by identifying the location of the patriarchal tomb. It signifies a place of ancestral heritage, a site secured by a legitimate purchase, and a tangible connection in the continuous story of God's people.
TRV