συλλέγω

I collect, gather

Definition

The Greek verb συλλέγω means to gather, collect, or bring together. In the New Testament, it most often describes the agricultural act of gathering crops, as in the parables of the wheat and the weeds (Matthew 13:28-30) and the dragnet (Matthew 13:48). It can also refer to gathering fruit from a tree, illustrating the principle that a tree is known by its fruit (Matthew 7:16, Luke 6:44). In an eschatological sense, it is used for the angels gathering the 'sons of the kingdom' or the wicked at the final judgment (Matthew 13:40-41).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used exclusively in the Gospels, with a strong concentration in Matthew's Gospel (7 of 8 occurrences). Its usage is almost entirely within Jesus's parables and teachings, particularly those involving agricultural imagery and the final judgment. The pattern shows it is a word of action, describing the decisive gathering of what has been produced or separated, whether good or bad.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition σύν (syn, meaning 'with' or 'together') and the verb λέγω (legō, meaning 'to lay, gather, or choose'). Literally, it means 'to gather together.' This compound form emphasizes a purposeful, collective action, distinct from simply picking something up.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects everyday agricultural practice with profound spiritual realities, particularly final judgment. In Jesus's parables, the act of 'gathering' is the decisive moment of separation and harvest, directly administered by divine agents (angels). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the intentionality and completeness of God's final act of gathering His people and dealing with evil.

In a predominantly agrarian society, the imagery of gathering a harvest would be immediately understood as a critical, labor-intensive, and time-sensitive event. It marked the culmination of the farming cycle and determined a community's provision. The use of a dragnet (Matthew 13:48) reflects the fishing practices of the Sea of Galilee, where all types of fish were gathered before being sorted.

τρυγάω (trygaō, G5166) — specifically to gather ripe fruit, especially grapes for vintage; συνάγω (synagō, G4863) — a broader term for gathering people or things, often for an assembly or meeting.

Word Details

Scripture References