Brief Overview of σύνεσις (Strong’s G4907: synesis)

Strong’s G4907: A compound noun derived from σύν (together) and ἵημι (to send), meaning understanding or intelligence. In NT usage, describes mental comprehension and spiritual insight, particularly the ability to grasp divine truth and apply it wisely.

U- Unveiling the Word

σύνεσις represents a deep form of understanding that involves bringing different aspects of knowledge together. The word conveys the idea of mental acuity and insight, particularly in spiritual matters. In its first New Testament appearance in Mark 12:33, it appears in the context of understanding God’s greatest commandments. The early church saw this term as expressing not just intellectual comprehension but spiritual discernment and practical wisdom. Today, this word continues to emphasize the importance of both theological understanding and its practical application in Christian life.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σύνεσις, synesis, /sün’-e-sis/
• Detailed pronunciation: SOON-eh-sis (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun (Feminine)

Etymology:

• σύν (syn): prefix meaning “together”
• ἵημι (hiēmi): verb meaning “to send”
• -σις (-sis): suffix forming abstract nouns
• The combination creates the meaning “putting together mentally”

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meanings:

1. Understanding
2. Intelligence
3. Mental comprehension
4. Spiritual insight

For compound words:

• σύν (syn): Adds concept of bringing together
• ἵημι (hiēmi): Provides sense of mental movement
• -σις (-sis): Makes it an abstract concept

Translation Options:

1. “Understanding” – Best captures mental comprehension
2. “Insight” – Emphasizes penetrating discernment
3. “Intelligence” – Highlights mental capacity

E – Exploring Similar Words

• φρόνησις (phronēsis, /fron’-ay-sis/) – See G5428: Practical wisdom
• γνῶσις (gnōsis, /gno’-sis/) – See G1108: Knowledge
• σοφία (sophia, /sof-ee’-ah/) – See G4678: Wisdom

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: Third declension

Example morphological changes:

• Nominative singular: σύνεσις
• Genitive singular: συνέσεως
• Dative singular: συνέσει
• Accusative singular: σύνεσιν
• Cross-references: συνίημι (syniēmi) – related verb meaning “to understand”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the word’s focus on mental comprehension and spiritual insight. Thayer’s notes its connection to practical understanding. LSJ provides examples from classical literature showing intellectual capacity. Vine’s highlights its use for spiritual discernment. Strong’s connects it to putting together mentally. Moulton and Milligan document its use in contexts of wisdom and learning.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“And to love Him with all the heart, and with all the understanding [σύνεσις], and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” Mark 12:33

Additional References:
Luke 2:47, 1 Corinthians 1:19, Ephesians 3:4, Colossians 1:9, Colossians 2:2

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σύνεσις represents the divine gift of understanding that enables us to grasp and apply spiritual truth. The good news of King Jesus isn’t just information to be learned but wisdom to be lived. This word reminds us that true spiritual understanding combines theological insight with practical application in loving God and neighbor.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used in ancient educational texts for comprehension
2. Early church fathers saw it as a gift of the Holy Spirit
3. Influenced development of Christian educational philosophy

Strong’s G4907: A compound noun expressing mental comprehension and spiritual insight. In NT usage, describes the understanding needed to grasp divine truth and apply it in life, particularly in loving God and neighbor.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: understanding, insight, wisdom, comprehension, spiritual discernment, intelligence, knowledge, mental capacity, wisdom, spiritual understanding​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​