προσκολλάω
proskolláō
G4347 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To join closely to, to attach firmly to someone or something, both in a literal and figurative sense. The verb primarily indicates a strong or binding connection, whether physical (as with objects or persons in close proximity) or metaphorical (as with loyalty, devotion, or close association to a person or group). In extended usage, it expresses steadfast or exclusive adherence, close relationship, or persistent attachment.
Semantic Range
to cling to, to join oneself closely (to a person), to associate or unite intimately, to stick fast, to attach in a binding way, to be devoted or loyal to someone or something
Root / Etymology
Derived from the preposition πρός ('to, toward, near') and the verb κολλάω ('to glue' or 'to join'), thus meaning 'to glue or stick to.' The compound expresses both direction and the act of adhering.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, κολλάω is used of objects adhering physically, like gluing or binding together. The compound προσκολλάω appears primarily in later Greek, particularly in the LXX and New Testament, with a focus on personal relationships. In the Septuagint and New Testament, προσκολλάω regularly appears in contexts describing close relational attachment, such as the marital union ('a man will leave his father and mother and be joined/attached to his wife') in Genesis 2:24 (LXX) and Matthew 19:5. It can also describe figurative adherence, as when someone 'joins' to another group, person, or teaching. Standard English translations—'cleave' or 'join'—do not always convey the intimacy and permanence implied; the verb can suggest unwavering loyalty, exclusive association, or full commitment. In Koine usage outside biblical texts, the term can be found in papyri describing physical proximity or adherence to instructions. There is emphasis on the firmness and persistence of the attachment over time. The verb stands in contrast to looser verbs meaning 'to accompany' (συνοδεύω), stressing a unique or enduring bond.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from πρός and κολλάω; to glue to, i.e. (figuratively) to adhere:--cleave, join (self).
Root Family
προσκολλάω (proskollaō) — adhere, glue, join, attach
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4347-01 |
προσκολληθήσεται | proskollethesetai | V FUT PASS IND 3P SG |
shall be joined | will be firmly attached | will be firmly attached | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4347-01 |
Ephesians 5:31 | προσκολληθήσεται | proskollethesetai | V FUT PASS IND 3P SG |
shall be joined | will be firmly attached | will be firmly attached |