συλλαλέω (sullaleō)
sullaleō
to talk with
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb sullaleō describes the act of talking with someone or engaging in conversation. Formed from a prefix meaning "with" and a root meaning "to speak," it emphasizes the interactive nature of speech rather than a monologue. In the New Testament, this word appears six times, primarily within the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
Its usage often highlights social interaction or intimate dialogue. For instance, Jesus is described as talking with his disciples after the resurrection (Luke 24:15) or conversing with others in various narrative contexts. The term captures the simple, yet significant, human act of sharing words face-to-face, grounding theological narratives in everyday communication.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word συλλαλέω reminds us that faith is not lived in isolation. It describes the simple, human act of talking with someone face-to-face. In Scripture, this kind of conversation often marks moments of divine presence or critical decision-making. When Jesus spoke with Moses and Elijah on the mountain, it was a dialogue between heaven and earth. These interactions show that God values our voices and desires to engage with us personally.
We see this same pattern in the lives of ordinary people. Festus conferred with his council, seeking wisdom before making a heavy judgment. Even in fear or confusion, talking things through is part of how we navigate life. This word invites us to value conversation as a sacred space where understanding grows and burdens are shared.
When you feel alone, remember that God is always ready to talk with you. He does not wait for perfect words; He listens to your heart. Engaging in honest dialogue with others can also be a way of encountering His peace. Let your conversations be bridges to grace, connecting you to those around you and to the One who created speech.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- were talking1×
- they were speaking1×
- talking with1×
- talking1×
- he spoke with1×
- having conferred1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συνελάλουν2×
- συλλαλοῦντες2×
- συνελάλησεν1×
- συλλαλήσας1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 17:3
Behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them talking with him.
This verse shows Jesus in direct conversation with Moses and Elijah, highlighting a unique moment of divine communion.
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Mark 9:4
Elijah and Moses appeared to them, and they were talking with Jesus.
Here the disciples witness Jesus talking with Moses and Elijah, emphasizing the reality of their spiritual presence.
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Luke 9:30
Behold, two men were talking with him, who were Moses and Elijah,
This account parallels the Transfiguration event, showing the two men talking with him as a sign of his glory.
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Acts 25:12
Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, “You have appealed to Caesar. To Caesar you shall go.”
Festus uses this type of consultation to navigate a legal dilemma, showing how dialogue leads to just decisions.