συγκαλέω

I call together

Definition

The verb συγκαλέω means 'to call together' or 'to summon for a gathering.' It denotes an intentional act of assembling a group, often for a specific purpose such as deliberation, celebration, or official action. In the Gospels, it is used for Jesus summoning his disciples (Luke 9:1) and for a shepherd calling friends to celebrate finding a lost sheep (Luke 15:6). In Acts, it describes formal convocations, such as the Sanhedrin being summoned (Acts 5:21) or Paul calling together the local Jewish leaders (Acts 28:17).

Biblical Usage

This verb appears 8 times in the New Testament, primarily in Luke and Acts, highlighting its use in narrative contexts about community and authority. It is employed for both joyful gatherings (Luke 15:6, 9) and serious, official assemblies (Mark 15:16; Luke 23:13; Acts 5:21; 10:24; 28:17). The pattern shows it is used by figures of authority—Jesus, Pilate, Jewish leaders, and Paul—to convene others.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek prefix σύν (syn, meaning 'with' or 'together') and the verb καλέω (kaleō, meaning 'to call'). It literally means 'to call together.' This compound form emphasizes the communal aspect of the calling, distinguishing it from a simple individual summons.

Semantic Range

This word underscores the theme of divinely orchestrated community and mission in Scripture. When Jesus 'calls together' the Twelve (Luke 9:1), it marks the formal commissioning for ministry, highlighting the communal nature of discipleship. In parables (Luke 15:6, 9), it reflects God's joy in gathering the lost, enriching our understanding of divine celebration over repentance. The term also appears in judicial contexts, reminding us that human assemblies, even hostile ones (Acts 5:21), operate within God's sovereign narrative.

In the Greco-Roman world, formally 'calling together' a group was a significant act of social and political authority. It implied the convener had the status or right to assemble others, whether for a council, a celebration, or a legal proceeding. This differs from a casual invitation; it carried weight of purpose and often urgency.

καλέω (kaleō, G2564) — a more general term for 'to call' or 'invite,' without the necessary implication of assembling a group. ἐπισυνάγω (episynagō, G1996) — emphasizes gathering or collecting together, often with a connotation of bringing in. συνάγω (synagō, G4863) — a broad term for 'to gather' or 'bring together,' which can be used for people or things, not solely by verbal summons.

Word Details

Scripture References