Συχέμ

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.