### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **haphḗ**, represented by `{{G860}}`, means **joint**. It is derived from a word meaning "to fasten," suggesting a ligament or connection. This term appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, yet it plays a crucial role in illustrating the interconnectedness of believers within the body of Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G860}}` describes the vital points of connection that enable the spiritual body to function and grow. In Ephesians, the whole body is described as being "compacted by that which every **joint** supplieth," which leads to the increase and edifying of the body in love [[Ephesians 4:16]]. Similarly, in Colossians, the body receives nourishment and is "knit together" by **joints** and bands, but this growth only occurs by holding fast to "the **Head**," which is Christ [[Colossians 2:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and context of `{{G860}}`:
* `{{G4886}}` **sýndesmos** (band, bond): Used alongside **joints** in [[Colossians 2:19]], this term refers to a "joint tie" or "ligament," reinforcing the theme of a unifying principle that holds the body together.
* `{{G4822}}` **symbibázō** (compact, knit together): This word describes the action that joints facilitate, which is to unite and **knit together** the members of the body in association or affection ([[Ephesians 4:16]], [[Colossians 2:19]]).
* `{{G2776}}` **kephalḗ** (head): The entire function of the joints is dependent on the **Head**. The body must hold to the **Head** to be properly nourished and grow ([[Colossians 2:19]], [[Ephesians 4:15]]).
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma** (body): The **joints** are integral parts of the **body**, which is the central metaphor in both passages where `{{G860}}` is found ([[Ephesians 4:16]], [[Colossians 2:19]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G860}}` is centered on the nature of the church as a living organism.
* **Mutual Supply:** The concept of "every **joint**" supplying nourishment highlights the interdependence of believers. Each part contributes to the health of the whole, making the body increase through "the effectual working in the measure of every part" [[Ephesians 4:16]].
* **Divine Source of Growth:** The joints are not the source of life themselves, but conduits. The body "increaseth with the increase of God" and receives its nourishment by being connected to the **Head** [[Colossians 2:19]].
* **Unity in Love:** The proper functioning of these connections results in the body being **knit together** in **love** [[Colossians 2:2]] and the "edifying of itself in **love**" [[Ephesians 4:16]], showing that functional unity is inseparable from love.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G860}}` **haphḗ**, while rare, offers a powerful anatomical metaphor for the church. It illustrates that believers are not isolated individuals but are fastened together, each one essential for supplying what is needed for the entire **body** to be built up. This unity and growth, however, are entirely dependent on a firm connection to Christ, the **Head**, who provides the life that flows through every **joint**.
TRV