From σύν, together, and ἁλής, thronged or crowded. Both the A. V. and Rev. give eating together in margin, following the derivation from σύν, together, and ἅλς, salt: eating salt together, and hence generally of association at table.
Commanded (παρήγγειλεν)
Originally to pass on or transmit; hence, as a military term, of passing a watchword or command; and so generally to command.
To wait for (περιμένειν)
Only here in New Testament.
The promise (ἐπαγγελίαν)
Signifying a free promise, given without solicitation. This is the invariable sense of the word throughout the New Testament, and this and its kindred and compound words are the only words for promise in the New Testament. Ὑπισχνέομαι, meaning to promise in response to a request, does not occur; and ὁμολογέω, Mat 14:7, of Herod promising Salome, really means to acknowledge his obligation for her lascivious performance. See note there.
Not many days hence (οὐ μετὰ πολλὰς ταύτας ἡμέρας)
Lit., not after many of these days. Not after many, but after a few.