Brief Overview of σύν (Strong’s G4862: syn)

Strong’s G4862: A primary preposition meaning “with, together with.” Used to express intimate association, accompaniment, and joint participation. In theological contexts, it often describes believers’ union with the Messiah and fellowship with one another, emphasizing complete participation and shared experience.

U- Unveiling the Word

σύν represents one of the most significant concepts in New Testament theology – intimate association and shared experience. As a primary preposition, it expresses close fellowship and joint participation, going beyond mere accompaniment to suggest deep involvement. In the New Testament, it appears frequently in theological contexts describing believers’ union with the Messiah and with each other. The early church saw this term as foundational for understanding both our relationship with the Messiah and Christian fellowship. Today, it continues to inform our understanding of spiritual union and community.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σύν, syn, /soon/
• Detailed pronunciation: SOON (single syllable)
• Part of Speech: Preposition

Etymology:

• Primary preposition
• Related to Sanskrit ‘sam-‘ meaning “with”
• Indo-European root *ksun
• Forms numerous compound words as prefix συν-/συμ-

D – Defining Meanings

• With
• Together with
• In company with

For compound words:
Not applicable as this is a primary preposition
(But forms numerous compounds emphasizing joint action or state)

Translation Options:

1. With – Most basic translation
2. Together with – Emphasizes joint participation
3. In association with – Stresses relational aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• μετά (meta) /met-ah/ – with, after – See G3326
• παρά (para) /par-ah/ – beside, with – See G3844
• ἅμα (hama) /ham-ah/ – together with – See G260

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features:
As a preposition, σύν:

• Takes the dative case
• Doesn’t change form
• Functions as prefix in compounds (συν-/συμ-)

Example usage:
“with Christ” – σὺν Χριστῷ
“with them” – σὺν αὐτοῖς
“with all” – σὺν πᾶσιν

• Cross-references include numerous compound words formed with συν-/συμ- prefix

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in expressing close association. Thayer’s highlights its difference from μετά. LSJ notes its widespread use in compound words. Vine’s connects it to spiritual union with Christ. Strong’s emphasizes intimate association. Moulton and Milligan document its common usage in personal relationships.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

So you ought to have deposited my money [σύν] with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own [σύν] with interest. Matthew 25:27

Additional References:
Luke 7:12, Romans 6:8, Colossians 2:20, 1 Thessalonians 4:17

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σύν beautifully captures the intimate nature of our relationship with King Jesus and fellow believers. It proclaims the good news that in the Messiah, we are not merely associated with Him but deeply united to Him. This word reminds us that Christian life is about intimate fellowship, both with our Lord and His people.

D – Did You Know?

1. σύν appears frequently in compounds describing aspects of salvation and Christian life.
2. It often expresses a more intimate connection than other prepositions meaning “with.”
3. Early church writers saw it as expressing mystical union with Christ.

Strong’s G4862: A primary preposition meaning “with, together with.” Used to express intimate association, accompaniment, and joint participation. In theological contexts, it often describes believers’ union with the Messiah and fellowship with one another, emphasizing complete participation and shared experience.

Part of speech: Preposition

Tags: union, fellowship, accompaniment, togetherness, participation, relationship, unity, association, companionship, union-with-christ, community, joint-participation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​