σύμβουλος

From the study of Romans 11:34

Range of meaning

An adviser or counselor, literally "one who plans together" (syn "with" + boulē "plan, counsel"). Used of advisers to kings and officials, and of members of a ruler's council. It appears only here in the New Testament.

Against the English

"Counselor" is the standard rendering. Today the word mostly suggests a therapist or school guidance counselor, someone who helps you with your problems. A symboulos helped a ruler make decisions. NLT's "who knows enough to give him advice" gets the function right.

How it drifted

In the 20th century "counselor" moved into therapy and social-work language. In older English (as in KJV, 1611) it meant a royal adviser, such as a Privy Counsellor.

Used elsewhere in the period

Septuagint 2 Sam 15:12 and 1 Chr 27:33 use it for Ahithophel, David's royal counselor. Isa 3:3 lists the "counselor" among the leading men of the state. Isa 40:13 LXX: τίς αὐτοῦ σύμβουλος ἐγένετο. In the Roman world governors decided with a council of advisers (compare Acts 25:12, where Festus confers with his συμβούλιον, his council).

From the study of Epistle of Barnabas 21:4

Range of meaning

An adviser or counsellor; literally one who 'deliberates together' with another. Used of a king's advisers, of trusted friends and of members of a council.

Against the English

'Counsellor' (Lake, Lightfoot) or 'adviser' (Holmes) both fit. Modern 'counsellor' can suggest a professional therapist. The Greek means a trusted friend or adviser whose judgment shapes decisions.

How it drifted

Mild. Today 'counsellor' often means a paid professional; here it means a peer who gives honest advice.

Used elsewhere in the period

Romans 11:34 (quoting Isaiah 40:13 in the Septuagint): 'Who has been his counsellor?' The Septuagint uses it for royal advisers (e.g., 2 Sam 15:12 of Ahithophel, 1 Chr 27:32–33). Wisdom literature praises the value of good counsellors (Sir 37:7–15 warns that 'every counsellor praises counsel, but some counsel for their own interest').