Brief Overview of σύνειμι (Strong’s G4895: syneimi)

Strong’s G4895: A compound verb combining σύν (together) and εἰμί (to be), meaning to be with or present with. In NT usage, primarily describes close association or companionship, particularly used of the disciples being with Jesus, emphasizing intimate fellowship and presence.

U- Unveiling the Word

σύνειμι expresses a profound concept of presence and companionship. As a compound word, it joins σύν (together) with εἰμί (to be), creating a term that describes intimate association and shared presence. In the New Testament, its usage in Luke 9:18 specifically describes the disciples being with Jesus, highlighting the special relationship between the Messiah and His followers. The early church understood this term as expressing both physical presence and spiritual communion. Today, this word continues to illuminate our understanding of fellowship with the Messiah and one another in the body of believers.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σύνειμι, syneimi, /sün’-i-mee/
• Detailed pronunciation: SOON-ee-mee (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• σύν (syn): prefix meaning “together”
• εἰμί (eimi): verb meaning “to be”
• The combination creates the meaning “to be together with”

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meanings:

1. To be present with
2. To associate with
3. To keep company with

For compound words:

• σύν (syn): Adds the concept of togetherness and fellowship
• εἰμί (eimi): Provides the core meaning of existence/being
• Together they emphasize shared presence and companionship

Translation Options:

1. “Be with” – Best captures the simple presence aspect
2. “Accompany” – Emphasizes ongoing companionship
3. “Associate with” – Highlights relational aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• παρειμι (pareimi, /par’-i-mee/) – See G3918: To be present beside
• ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheō, /ak-ol-oo-theh’-o/) – See G190: To follow
• συνακολουθέω (synakoloutheō, /soon-ak-ol-oo-theh’-o/) – See G4870: To follow together with

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

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

Example morphological changes:

• Present Active: σύνειμι (I am with)
• Present Participle: συνών (being with)
• Imperfect: συνῆν (I was with)
• Cross-references: συνουσία (synousia) – related noun meaning “association”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the word’s focus on companionship and presence. Thayer’s notes its use for close association and fellowship. LSJ provides examples from classical literature showing various types of association. Vine’s highlights its usage in describing disciples’ relationship with Jesus. Strong’s connects it to the concept of being in company with. Moulton and Milligan document its use in papyri for personal relationships and associations.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“And it came to pass, as He was alone praying, His disciples were with [σύνειμι] Him: and He asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am?” Luke 9:18

Additional References:
Acts 22:11

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σύνειμι beautifully captures the essence of Christian fellowship and discipleship. The good news of King Jesus is not just about salvation but about intimate companionship with Him and His people. Just as the disciples were with Jesus, learning from His presence, we too are called to be with Him and with one another in meaningful fellowship.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used in ancient philosophical texts to describe teacher-student relationships
2. Early church writers used it to describe both physical and spiritual communion
3. The word influenced early monastic vocabulary about community life

Strong’s G4895: A compound verb joining “together” (σύν) with “to be” (εἰμί), expressing close association and presence. Used particularly of disciples being with Jesus, emphasizing both physical presence and spiritual fellowship.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: fellowship, presence, companionship, discipleship, communion, association, relationship, community, togetherness, accompaniment​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​