Divine Instructions: συντάσσω (Strong’s G4929: suntasso) Reveals Perfect Obedience

Strong’s G4929: A compound verb combining σύν (with) and τάσσω (to arrange), συντάσσω expresses the act of giving or following specific instructions. In the Gospels, it emphasizes complete obedience to divine directives, particularly in contexts of fulfilling the Messiah’s commands.

U – Unveiling the Word

συντάσσω (suntasso) represents the giving and following of detailed instructions or arrangements. This compound word emphasizes orderly arrangement and precise direction. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts where exact obedience to divine instructions is crucial, particularly in the disciples’ preparation for the Last Supper. Early church writers used this term to emphasize careful adherence to apostolic teaching and divine commands. Today, it reminds us of the importance of precise obedience to God’s instructions and the blessing that comes from following His directives exactly.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: συντάσσω, suntasso, /sün-tas’-sō/
• Pronunciation Guide: soon-TASS-oh (where ‘ss’ is as in “pass”)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• σύν (syn) – prefix meaning “with, together”
• τάσσω (tasso) – verb meaning “to arrange, order”
• The combination emphasizes arranged instructions

D – Defining Meanings

• To arrange together
• To command, direct
• To prescribe specific instructions

For compound words:
The prefix σύν adds completeness to the arranging action of τάσσω, creating a word expressing thorough organization or precise instruction.

Translation Options:

• “to direct precisely” – emphasizes exact instruction
• “to arrange completely” – highlights thorough organization
• “to command specifically” – focuses on detailed direction

E – Exploring Similar Words

• τάσσω (tasso) /tas’-so/ – to arrange, appoint
  See G5021
• διατάσσω (diatasso) /dee-at-as’-so/ – to command, ordain
  See G1299
• ἐπιτάσσω (epitasso) /ep-ee-tas’-so/ – to command, order
  See G2004

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verbal Features:

• Tense: Aorist
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative
• Person: 3rd
• Number: Singular
• Aspect: Perfective

Examples of forms:

• συνέταξεν (he commanded)
• συντάξας (having commanded)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the word’s use in giving specific instructions. Thayer’s notes its connection to divine commands. LSJ provides examples from military and administrative contexts. Vine’s connects it to authoritative direction. Strong’s highlights the organizing aspect of the root word. LEH and Moulton and Milligan note its frequent use in official directives.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 26:19: “The disciples did as Jesus had directed [συντάσσω] them; and they prepared the Passover.”

Additional References:
Matthew 27:10

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

συντάσσω beautifully illustrates the importance of precise obedience to divine instruction. This word proclaims the good news that God provides clear direction for His people. It reminds us that blessing follows careful attention to His commands, just as the disciples’ obedience led to the preparation of the Last Supper where the Messiah instituted the New Covenant.

D – Did You Know?

1. συντάσσω appears only in Matthew’s Gospel
2. It’s used in contexts of preparing for significant spiritual events
3. The word influenced early Christian liturgical instructions

Strong’s G4929: A compound verb combining σύν (with) and τάσσω (to arrange), συντάσσω expresses the act of giving or following specific instructions. In the Gospels, it emphasizes complete obedience to divine directives, particularly in contexts of fulfilling the Messiah’s commands.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: instructions, commands, obedience, divine direction, Matthew’s Gospel, Last Supper, preparation, compound words, Greek verbs, authority, precise following​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​