προσκολλάω

I join closely, cleave to

Definition

The verb προσκολλάω (proskollaō) literally means 'to glue to' or 'to join closely together.' In the New Testament, it carries this strong sense of intimate, permanent attachment. In its primary usage, it describes the profound union of marriage, where a man and woman are joined together by God into 'one flesh' (Matthew 19:5, Mark 10:7, Ephesians 5:31). In a different, negative context, it is used metaphorically to describe people attaching themselves to a charismatic leader, as with Theudas, where followers 'joined' or 'adhered to' him (Acts 5:36).

Biblical Usage

This word is used four times in the New Testament. Three occurrences directly quote Genesis 2:24 to define the divine institution of marriage, appearing in the Gospels (Matthew 19:5, Mark 10:7) and Paul's epistle (Ephesians 5:31). In each, it underscores the inseparable, covenantal bond between husband and wife. The fourth use is in Acts 5:36, describing followers who 'attached themselves' to the rebel Theudas, showing a secular application of the same concept of close adherence, but to a human cause.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition πρό (pro, 'before' or 'to') and the verb κολλάω (kollaō, 'to glue' or 'to cleave'). Κολλάω itself comes from κόλλα (kolla, 'glue'). Thus, προσκολλάω intensifies the root idea, meaning 'to glue to' or 'to join firmly onto' something. Its meaning developed from a physical act of adhesion to a powerful metaphor for relational and spiritual union.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant for its role in defining covenant relationships. In marriage texts, it grounds the union in God's creative design, presenting it as a permanent, spiritual 'one-flesh' bond that mirrors Christ's relationship with the church (Ephesians 5:31-32). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that biblical marriage is not a casual contract but a God-joined, unbreakable adhesion. It also provides a contrast in Acts, warning against giving such devoted allegiance to flawed human leaders.

In the 1st-century Greco-Roman world, 'gluing' was a common metaphor for strong attachment, but marriage was often viewed more as a social or economic arrangement. The biblical use of προσκολλάω, especially by Jesus and Paul quoting Genesis, challenged this by reasserting the Hebrew concept of marriage as a sacred, monogamous, and permanent covenant established by God, not merely by human contract.

κολλάω (kollaō, G2853) — The root verb, meaning simply 'to glue' or 'cleave,' used more generally for close association. ἑνόω (henoō, G1774) — Means 'to unite' or 'make one,' focusing on the result of unity rather than the act of joining. μενω (menō, G3306) — Means 'to abide' or 'remain,' emphasizing duration of stay rather than the initial act of attachment.

Word Details

Scripture References