συγκλείω

I enclose, shut in

Definition

The verb συγκλείω means 'to shut in together,' 'to enclose,' or 'to confine.' In its literal sense, it describes a physical shutting in, as seen in Luke 5:6 where a great catch of fish is enclosed in nets. In its figurative and theological sense, it means to confine or imprison under a condition, such as being under sin or the law. In Romans 11:32, Paul states God has 'shut up all in disobedience,' and in Galatians 3:22-23, Scripture has 'shut up all under sin' and people were 'confined under the law,' emphasizing a state of universal confinement from which only God provides deliverance.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used four times in the New Testament, appearing in Luke's Gospel and the Pauline epistles. In Luke 5:6, it is used literally for the miraculous catch of fish. In Romans 11:32 and Galatians 3:22-23, Paul uses it theologically and metaphorically to describe humanity's universal state of being confined under sin, disobedience, and the law, setting the stage for the revelation of grace and faith in Christ.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek prefix σύν (syn, meaning 'together with') and the verb κλείω (kleiō, meaning 'to shut' or 'to close'). It literally means 'to shut together' or 'to enclose completely.' This compound form intensifies the basic action of closing, giving it a sense of comprehensive confinement.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant in Paul's writings, where it frames the universal human predicament. By stating that all are 'shut up' under sin (Galatians 3:22) and disobedience (Romans 11:32), Paul establishes the comprehensive need for salvation. This confinement is not the final word but serves a divine purpose: to make mercy available to all and to lead people to faith in Christ. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by highlighting the intentional, all-encompassing nature of this 'shutting up' as a prelude to God's gracious intervention.

In a Greco-Roman context, the imagery of being 'shut in' or 'enclosed' could evoke ideas of imprisonment, siege, or being trapped with no escape. This would resonate powerfully with Paul's audience, emphasizing the inescapable nature of the human condition under sin and law apart from divine action.

κλείω (kleiō, G2808) — The simpler root verb meaning 'to shut' or 'close,' without the intensive 'together' connotation. | φυλακίζω (phylakizō, G5439) — Means to imprison or cast into prison, focusing more on the custodial aspect rather than the comprehensive confinement implied by συγκλείω.

Word Details

Scripture References