Brief Overview of συνδέω (Strong’s G4887: syndeō)

Strong’s G4887: A compound verb combining σύν (together) and δέω (to bind), meaning to bind or fasten together. Used metaphorically in the NT to express spiritual connection and shared experiences among believers, particularly in contexts of empathy and mutual support.

U- Unveiling the Word

συνδέω is a powerful compound verb that combines the concept of togetherness (σύν) with binding (δέω). Its primary meaning conveys the act of joining or binding things together, but in the New Testament, it takes on a profound spiritual dimension. In its only appearance in Hebrews 13:3, it describes believers being “bound together” with those suffering imprisonment, suggesting a deep spiritual and emotional connection that transcends physical presence. The early church understood this word as expressing the vital interconnectedness of the body of believers, emphasizing how Christians should share in one another’s experiences and struggles. Today, this word continues to challenge us to move beyond superficial fellowship to deep, empathetic connection with fellow believers.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: συνδέω, syndeō, /sün-deh’-o/
• Detailed pronunciation: SOON-deh-oh (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• σύν (syn): prefix meaning “together with”
• δέω (deō): root verb meaning “to bind”
• The combination creates the meaning “to bind together”

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meanings:

1. To bind together physically
2. To join together in shared experience
3. To connect emotionally or spiritually

For compound words:

• σύν (syn): Adds the concept of togetherness and mutual experience
• δέω (deō): Provides the core meaning of binding or securing
• Together they emphasize mutual connection and shared experience

Translation Options:

1. “Bind together” – Best captures both physical and spiritual aspects
2. “Join in fellowship” – Emphasizes the communal aspect
3. “Share in experience” – Highlights the empathetic dimension

E – Exploring Similar Words

• δέω (deō, /deh’-o/) – See G1210: Basic term for binding or tying
• σύνδεσμος (syndesmos, /sün-des’-mos/) – See G4886: Noun form, meaning bond or ligament
• συναρμολογέω (synarmologeō, /sün-ar-mol-og-eh’-o/) – See G4883: To join together closely

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist, Perfect
• Voice: Active, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Continuous (Present), Completed (Perfect)

Example morphological changes:

• Present Active: συνδέω (I bind together)
• Future Active: συνδήσω (I will bind together)
• Perfect Passive: συνδέδεμαι (I have been bound together)
• Cross-references: σύνδεσμος (syndesmos) – related noun meaning “bond”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the word’s usage in contexts of shared experience and sympathy. Thayer’s highlights its literal meaning of binding together while acknowledging its metaphorical application. LSJ provides examples from classical literature where it describes physical binding and metaphorical connection. Vine’s notes its unique usage in Hebrews for expressing Christian sympathy. Strong’s connects it to the concept of binding together in both literal and figurative senses. Moulton and Milligan document its use in papyri for legal and commercial binding agreements.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“Remember them that are in bonds, as bound [συνδέω] with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.” Hebrews 13:3

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

συνδέω powerfully illustrates the deep connection believers should have with one another, particularly in times of suffering. This word reveals that the good news of King Jesus isn’t just about individual salvation but about being bound together in genuine fellowship and mutual support. It challenges us to move beyond superficial relationships to deep, empathetic connections that reflect the Messiah’s love and care for His body.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was commonly used in ancient shipbuilding to describe binding together planks
2. Early Christian writers used it to describe the unity of Scripture with tradition
3. In medical texts, it described the healing process of binding wounds together

Strong’s G4887: A compound verb joining “together” (σύν) with “to bind” (δέω), expressing the act of binding together. In its NT usage, it particularly emphasizes the spiritual and emotional connection between believers, especially in contexts of shared suffering and mutual support.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: bind, unity, fellowship, connection, suffering, empathy, solidarity, community, mutual support, shared experience, sympathy, Christian unity, fellowship, bonds​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​