ἐπισυναγωγή (episunagōgē)
episunagōgē
gathering
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun episunagōgē refers to a gathering or assembly of people in one place. In the New Testament, it specifically describes the meeting of believers for worship and encouragement. The word appears only twice, both in the context of urging Christians not to neglect their regular meetings.
Its meaning is built on the root words for "to gather" and "upon," suggesting a purposeful coming together. In Hebrews 10:25, it is used to exhort believers to encourage one another as they anticipate Christ's return. Similarly, in 2 Thessalonians 2:1, it refers to the gathering of Christians that will occur at the Second Coming.
This term highlights the communal nature of Christian faith. It is not merely a social call but a spiritual obligation to remain connected with other believers. The sources emphasize that this gathering serves as a vital means of mutual support and hope in a challenging world.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word episunagōgē points to a purposeful gathering of believers. It appears in Hebrews 10:25, urging Christians not to neglect meeting together. This is not just about socialising but about mutual encouragement as we anticipate Christ's return.
It also appears in 2 Thessalonians 2:1, referring to our gathering to Him at His coming. This reminds us that our faith is communal. We are called to support one another, especially when challenges arise or the Day draws near.
This word invites you to value your church community. It is a place of strength and hope, where we find encouragement in shared belief and love for our Lord.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- gathering together1×
- assembling together1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπισυναγωγῆς1×
- ἐπισυναγωγὴν1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 10:25
not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
This verse uses the word to command believers not to stop meeting together but to encourage one another as the Day approaches.
-
II Thessalonians 2:1
Now, brothers, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to him, we ask you
Here the term refers specifically to the future gathering of believers to Christ at His second coming, highlighting our ultimate hope.