συγκομίζω

I bear away together with

Definition

The verb συγκομίζω means 'to carry away together' or 'to bear away with others.' In its single New Testament occurrence, it specifically refers to the respectful removal of a dead body for burial, as seen in Acts 8:2, where devout men carry away and bury Stephen's body. This action implies a communal, cooperative effort in performing a solemn duty. While the core meaning is physical transportation, the context of burial gives it a connotation of honor and shared grief.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 8:2. It describes the action of 'devout men' who came to συγκομίζω (carry away) the body of Stephen after his martyrdom. The usage is entirely within the context of a burial procession, highlighting a collective, reverent act by the early Christian community following a traumatic event.

Etymology

συγκομίζω is a compound verb formed from the preposition σύν (syn, meaning 'with' or 'together') and the verb κομίζω (komizō, meaning 'to carry,' 'to bring,' or 'to receive'). Literally, it means 'to carry with' or 'to bear together.' The prefix σύν emphasizes the communal or assisted nature of the action.

Semantic Range

While not a theologically dense term, συγκομίζω offers a poignant glimpse into early church practice. It illustrates the immediate, practical response of love and honor within the Christian community following persecution. The act of reverently burying Stephen, the first martyr, underscores the dignity afforded to the body and the importance of communal care, even in grief. It sets a pattern for the church's role in ministering to its members in death as in life.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, proper burial was a sacred duty and a mark of profound respect. Leaving a body unburied was considered a grievous dishonor. The action described in Acts 8:2 was culturally essential. The use of συγκομίζω, emphasizing a group effort, may reflect both the practical need to carry a body and the cultural weight of the act, showing that Stephen's fellow believers ensured he received a dignified burial despite the hostile circumstances.

θάπτω (thaptō, G2290) — The more common verb meaning specifically 'to bury' or 'inter.' συγκομίζω focuses on the act of carrying to the place of burial, while θάπτω encompasses the entire burial rite. κομίζω (komizō, G2865) — The root verb meaning 'to carry' or 'to bring,' but without the communal connotation (σύν) inherent in συγκομίζω.

Word Details

Scripture References