Creation’s Groaning: συστενάζω (Strong’s G4959: stenazó) Reveals Universal Redemption Hope

Strong’s G4959: From sun (with) and stenazó (to groan), συστενάζω describes the collective groaning of creation under the weight of sin and corruption. This powerful compound verb emphasizes shared suffering while anticipating future glory and redemption.

U- Unveiling the Word

συστενάζω powerfully captures the unified groaning of all creation under the burden of sin and mortality. As a compound word, it combines the concept of “together with” (σύν) and “groaning” (στενάζω), painting a vivid picture of creation’s shared longing for redemption. In Romans 8, Paul uses this term to describe how the entire created order joins in expressing the deep anguish of its fallen state while simultaneously yearning for restoration. The early church understood this word as expressing both the universal effects of the Fall and the cosmic scope of redemption in the Messiah. Today, it reminds us that salvation extends beyond individual souls to encompass the renewal of all creation.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: συστενάζω, sustenazó, /sü-ste-nä’-zō/
• Pronunciation Guide: “soo-sten-AH-zoh” (stress on third syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• σύν (syn) – prefix meaning “with” or “together”
• στενάζω (stenazó) – verb meaning “to groan”
• -ω (-ō) – first person singular present active indicative ending

D – Defining Meanings

• To groan together
• To express collective anguish
• To share in suffering

For compound words:
σύν (together) combines with στενάζω (to groan) to express collective groaning or shared suffering, emphasizing the universal nature of creation’s longing for redemption.

Translation Options:

• “To groan together” – Best captures the collective nature
• “To suffer jointly” – Emphasizes shared experience
• “To lament in unity” – Highlights the communal aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• στενάζω (stenazó) /ste-nä’-zō/ – to groan individually – See G4727
• συμπάσχω (sympaschó) /süm-pä’-skhō/ – to suffer with – See G4841
• συνωδίνω (synódinó) /sü-nō-dē’-nō/ – to travail together – See G4944

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, συστενάζω exhibits:

• Tense: Present, Imperfect
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative, Participle
• Person: First, Second, Third
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Imperfective

For example:

• συστενάζω – Present active indicative (I groan together)
• συστενάζων – Present active participle (groaning together)
• συνεστέναζον – Imperfect active indicative (was groaning together)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its unique usage in Romans 8:22 and its cosmic significance. Thayer’s highlights the collective nature of the groaning. LSJ notes its rare usage outside biblical literature. Vine’s connects it to the universal effects of sin. Strong’s emphasizes the unity implied by the σύν prefix. Moulton and Milligan observe its distinctive theological usage in Christian literature.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Romans 8:22: “We know that the whole creation groans [συστενάζω] and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.”

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

συστενάζω reveals the profound truth that creation’s redemption is inseparably linked to human salvation. This word proclaims the good news that the Messiah’s redemptive work extends to all creation, promising not just individual salvation but cosmic renewal. It reminds us that our hope in Him encompasses the restoration of all things to their intended glory.

D – Did You Know?

• συστενάζω appears only once in the New Testament but carries immense theological significance
• Early church fathers used this word to discuss environmental stewardship
• The concept influenced Christian views on the relationship between humanity and creation

Strong’s G4959: From sun (with) and stenazó (to groan), συστενάζω describes the collective groaning of creation under the weight of sin and corruption. This powerful compound verb emphasizes shared suffering while anticipating future glory and redemption.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: creation, groaning, redemption, suffering, cosmic renewal, environmental theology, Romans 8, Paul’s theology, hope, restoration​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​