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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is essential for Biblical studies, as they often encapsulate intricate meanings that illuminate the texts. The term ὀνίνημι, found in Philemon 1:20, is particularly significant as it pertains to the themes of comfort, encouragement, and the interpersonal dynamics within the early Christian community. This verb not only describes the act of benefiting or being useful to others but also underscores the emotional and spiritual support that believers are encouraged to provide to one another. By examining ὀνίνημι, we can better appreciate the relational aspects of faith that permeated the New Testament.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὀνίνημι (oninēmi)

Pronunciation Guide: oh-NIN-ē-mee

Etymology: The term ὀνίνημι is derived from the root ὄνις (onis), which relates to usefulness or benefit. This root emphasizes the positive impact of one person’s actions on another, highlighting a sense of support and mutual aid.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, ὀνίνημι indicates an action and is used in a variety of contexts in the New Testament.

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Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: To benefit. This primary meaning focuses on the idea of providing help or support to another person, often in a spiritual or emotional context.

Meaning 2: To comfort or encourage. In this sense, ὀνίνημι emphasizes the act of bringing consolation and emotional support, reflecting the importance of community in the early church.

Meaning 3: To bring joy or happiness. This meaning captures the essence of how acts of kindness and support can uplift others and foster a sense of belonging and joy within the community.

Exploring Similar Words

ὄνις (onis) : This term means “benefit” or “usefulness” and relates closely to ὀνίνημι. While ὄνις emphasizes the concept of utility, ὀνίνημι focuses on the action of providing that benefit.

ἐνθαρρύνω (entharrynō) : This verb means “to encourage” or “to comfort.” It shares similarities with ὀνίνημι but emphasizes the verbal or motivational aspect of support, whereas ὀνίνημι is more action-oriented in terms of tangible benefits.

παρακαλέω (parakaleō) : Meaning “to call alongside” or “to encourage,” this verb indicates a supportive presence. It overlaps with ὀνίνημι in the context of emotional support but can imply a more formal call to aid or support.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood: ὀνίνημι primarily appears in the present tense, active voice, indicative mood. The present tense signifies ongoing action, suggesting a continuous benefit or support rather than a one-time event.

Person and Number: ὀνίνημι is conjugated for different persons and numbers. For example, in the first person singular present indicative, it would be “ὀνίνημι” (I benefit), while in the third person singular it would be “ὀνίνει” (he/she benefits).

Aspect: The imperfective aspect of ὀνίνημι implies that the action is ongoing, highlighting the continual nature of providing support and comfort to others.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

In the New Testament, particularly in Philemon 1:20, the term ὀνίνημι illustrates the concept of mutual benefit and encouragement within the Christian community. Paul writes to Philemon about Onesimus, expressing his desire for Philemon to benefit him by receiving Onesimus back with kindness. This demonstrates the emphasis on reconciliation and the relational aspect of faith, where believers are called to support and uplift one another.

Theologically, ὀνίνημι highlights the importance of community in the Christian faith. It encourages believers to actively engage in acts of kindness and support, reflecting the love of Christ in their interactions. The call to benefit one another reinforces the notion that faith is not merely an individual experience but a communal journey that thrives on mutual encouragement and support.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Philemon 1:20: “Yes, brother, I want some benefit [ὀνίνημι] from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ.”

This verse emphasizes the desire for mutual support and encouragement within the Christian community.

Romans 12:10: “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”

This verse highlights the call for believers to support and uplift each other.

2 Corinthians 1:4: “Who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction.”

This verse reflects the reciprocal nature of comfort and support among believers.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text

Plato Phaedo “Those who seek to benefit [ὀνίνημι] others will find their own souls nourished.”

Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics “The virtuous person is one who brings benefit [ὀνίνημι] to their friends and community.”

Sophocles Antigone “To aid in times of sorrow is to bring benefit [ὀνίνημι] to those who suffer.”

Septuagint Proverbs 11:25 “Whoever brings blessing [ὀνίνημι] will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”

Septuagint Job 29:13 “The blessing of the one ready to perish came upon me, and I caused the widow’s heart to sing.”

Septuagint Isaiah 58:10 “If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness…”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word ὀνίνημι plays a critical role in illustrating the themes of support, encouragement, and mutual benefit within the New Testament, particularly in Philemon 1:20. It emphasizes the relational dynamics that characterize the early Christian community, encouraging believers to uplift one another through acts of kindness. By exploring its meanings, morphology, and classical contexts, we gain a deeper understanding of how these values were lived out in the early church and how they continue to inform Christian fellowship today.

Did You Know?

• The term ὀνίνημι is rooted in the idea of mutual benefit, emphasizing that believers are called to both give and receive support within their communities.

• In Philemon, Paul’s appeal to Onesimus for help highlights the importance of relationships in the early church and sets a precedent for how Christians should interact with one another.

• The reciprocal nature of comfort and encouragement found in ὀνίνημι reflects the broader Christian principle that faith is a shared journey, one that thrives on love and support among believers.