Brief Overview of συνεσθίω (Strong’s G4906: synesthiō)

Strong’s G4906: A compound verb combining σύν (together) and ἐσθίω (to eat), meaning to eat with or share a meal with. In NT usage, describes table fellowship, particularly highlighting Jesus’ radical inclusion of sinners and later issues of Jewish-Gentile communion.

U- Unveiling the Word

συνεσθίω represents a profound concept of fellowship through shared meals. As a compound word, it combines σύν (together) with ἐσθίω (to eat), creating a term that goes beyond mere eating to express intimate fellowship. In the New Testament, its usage is particularly significant, first appearing in Luke 15:2 where religious leaders criticize Jesus for eating with sinners. The early church recognized this term’s importance in expressing both fellowship with the Messiah and unity among believers despite social barriers. Today, this word continues to challenge our understanding of inclusive fellowship and communion across social divides.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: συνεσθίω, synesthiō, /sün-es-thee’-o/
• Detailed pronunciation: soon-es-THEE-oh (stress on third syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• σύν (syn): prefix meaning “together”
• ἐσθίω (esthiō): verb meaning “to eat”
• The combination creates the meaning “to eat together with”

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meanings:

1. To eat with someone
2. To share a meal with
3. To have table fellowship

For compound words:

• σύν (syn): Emphasizes shared experience
• ἐσθίω (esthiō): Provides the core meaning of eating
• Together they express communal dining

Translation Options:

1. “Eat with” – Best captures simple shared dining
2. “Share meals with” – Emphasizes fellowship aspect
3. “Dine together” – Highlights social dimension

E – Exploring Similar Words

• τρώγω (trōgō, /tro’-go/) – See G5176: To eat, munch
• συνανάκειμαι (synanakeimai, /soon-an-ak’-i-mahee/) – See G4873: To recline at table with
• συνευωχέομαι (syneuōcheomai, /soon-yoo-o-kheh’-om-ahee/) – See G4910: To feast together

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

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

Example morphological changes:

• Present Active: συνεσθίω (I eat with)
• Aorist Active: συνέφαγον (I ate with)
• Present Infinitive: συνεσθίειν (to eat with)
• Cross-references: συντράπεζος (syntrapezos) – related adjective meaning “table companion”

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the social significance of shared meals. Thayer’s notes its use in contexts of intimate fellowship. LSJ provides examples from classical literature showing various dining contexts. Vine’s highlights its importance in early Christian fellowship. Strong’s connects it to communion and fellowship. Moulton and Milligan document its use in social contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with [συνεσθίω] them.” Luke 15:2

Additional References:
Acts 11:3, 1 Corinthians 5:11, Galatians 2:12

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

συνεσθίω powerfully illustrates how the good news of King Jesus breaks down social barriers through shared fellowship. Just as Jesus ate with sinners and tax collectors, demonstrating God’s inclusive love, we too are called to practice radical table fellowship that transcends social, ethnic, and religious boundaries.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used in ancient friendship treaties
2. Central to early church communion practices
3. Influenced development of Christian hospitality traditions

Strong’s G4906: A compound verb joining “together” (σύν) with “to eat” (ἐσθίω), expressing shared meals and fellowship. Used in NT to highlight both Jesus’ inclusive ministry and early church fellowship issues, particularly regarding social barriers.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: fellowship, communion, meals, table fellowship, hospitality, inclusion, social barriers, dining, unity, community​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​