Brief Overview of συναλλάσσω (Strong’s G4900: synallassō)

Strong’s G4900: A compound verb combining σύν (together) and ἀλλάσσω (to change/exchange), meaning to reconcile or bring together those who are estranged. In NT usage, describes attempts to restore peace between conflicting parties, emphasizing active peacemaking.

U- Unveiling the Word

συναλλάσσω represents the active work of reconciliation and peacemaking. As a compound word, it combines σύν (together) with ἀλλάσσω (to change), creating a term that describes the process of bringing opposing parties into harmony. In its sole New Testament appearance in Acts 7:26, it describes Moses attempting to reconcile two fighting Israelites. The early church understood this term as expressing both the human effort in peacemaking and the divine work of reconciliation. Today, this word continues to teach us about the active nature of peacemaking and our role as ministers of reconciliation.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: συναλλάσσω, synallassō, /sün-al-las’-so/
• Detailed pronunciation: soon-al-LAS-so (stress on third syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• σύν (syn): prefix meaning “together”
• ἀλλάσσω (allassō): verb meaning “to change” or “exchange”
• The combination creates the meaning “to change together” or “reconcile”

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meanings:

1. To reconcile people in conflict
2. To restore harmony between parties
3. To make peace between opponents

For compound words:

• σύν (syn): Emphasizes mutual involvement
• ἀλλάσσω (allassō): Provides the concept of change or exchange
• Together they express mutual transformation toward peace

Translation Options:

1. “Reconcile” – Best captures the peace-making aspect
2. “Bring together” – Emphasizes the unifying action
3. “Make peace between” – Highlights the mediating role

E – Exploring Similar Words

• καταλλάσσω (katallassō, /kat-al-las’-so/) – See G2644: To reconcile
• εἰρηνοποιέω (eirēnopoieō, /i-ray-nop-oy-eh’-o/) – See G1517: To make peace
• διαλλάσσω (diallassō, /dee-al-las’-so/) – See G1259: To be reconciled

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

• Tense: Imperfect
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative
• Person: Third
• Number: Singular
• Aspect: Continuous (Imperfect)

Example morphological changes:

• Present Active: συναλλάσσω (I reconcile)
• Imperfect Active: συνήλλασσον (I was reconciling)
• Aorist Active: συνήλλαξα (I reconciled)
• Cross-references: συναλλαγή (synallagē) – related noun meaning “reconciliation”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the word’s use in contexts of active peacemaking. Thayer’s notes its application to mediating disputes. LSJ provides examples from classical literature showing various reconciliation contexts. Vine’s highlights its unique usage in Acts. Strong’s connects it to the concept of mutual change. Moulton and Milligan document its use in papyri for legal reconciliations.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“And the next day he showed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one [συναλλάσσω], saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?” Acts 7:26

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

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

Author: Work	Text
Thucydides: History	“The mediators attempted to reconcile [συναλλάσσω] the warring cities.”
Xenophon: Hellenica	“They sought to make peace [συναλλάσσω] between the opposing factions.”
Plutarch: Lives	“The ambassador worked to reconcile [συναλλάσσω] the disagreeing parties.”

N – Noteworthy Summary

συναλλάσσω reminds us that reconciliation requires active engagement. The good news of King Jesus is fundamentally about reconciliation – first between God and humans, then between people. Just as Moses attempted to reconcile his fellow Israelites, we are called to be ministers of reconciliation, actively working to bring peace where there is conflict.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used in ancient peace treaties between city-states
2. Applied in early church discipline procedures
3. Influenced development of Christian mediation practices

Strong’s G4900: A compound verb joining “together” (σύν) with “to change” (ἀλλάσσω), expressing active reconciliation efforts. Its single NT use describes attempted peacemaking between conflicting parties, emphasizing the practice of bringing unity from discord.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: reconciliation, peacemaking, mediation, unity, conflict resolution, harmony, peace, restoration, brotherhood, healing relationships​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​