Divine Brevity: συντόμως (Strong’s G4935: syntomōs) Reveals Concise Gospel Truth

Strong’s G4935: An adverb derived from σύν (with) and τέμνω (to cut), meaning “concisely” or “briefly.” Used in formal speech contexts, particularly in Acts, demonstrating respectful brevity when addressing authority while maintaining clear communication of truth.

U- Unveiling the Word

συντόμως embodies the art of precise, efficient communication. As a compound word, it combines σύν (with) and τέμνω (to cut), creating the concept of “cutting together” or “cutting down to essentials.” In Acts, it appears in Paul’s defense before Felix, demonstrating how early Christians communicated profound truth concisely. The word reflects the early church’s ability to present the gospel message efficiently without compromising its depth. Today, it reminds us that effective communication of divine truth often requires both clarity and brevity.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: συντόμως, syntomōs, soon-TOH-moce
• Pronunciation Guide: ‘soon’ as in ‘soon’, ‘toh’ as in ‘toe’, ‘moce’ as in ‘close’
• Part of Speech: Adverb

Etymology:

• σύν (syn) – prefix meaning “with” or “together”
• τέμνω (temnō) – root verb meaning “to cut”
• -ως (-ōs) – adverbial suffix indicating manner
• The prefix σύν suggests completeness in the action
• The root τέμνω implies precise cutting or division

D – Defining Meanings

• Concisely
• Briefly
• Succinctly
• In a shortened form
• With precision

For compound words:
σύν adds the notion of completeness or thoroughness to τέμνω’s action of cutting, while the -ως suffix transforms it into an adverb describing manner. The combination creates the concept of thoroughly cutting down to essential elements.

Translation Options:

1. “Concisely” – Best captures both brevity and precision
2. “Briefly” – Emphasizes the time-saving aspect
3. “Succinctly” – Highlights both clarity and efficiency

E – Exploring Similar Words

• βραχέως (bracheōs, bra-KHE-oce) – shortly, briefly – See G1024
• συνελών (synelōn, soon-e-LOHN) – to make concise – See G4838
• ἐν τάχει (en tachei, en TAH-khei) – quickly, shortly – See G5034

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an adverb, συντόμως has fixed morphological features:

• Form: Fixed adverbial ending -ως
• Degree: Can be modified by comparative and superlative forms
• Position: Usually appears before or after the verb it modifies

The word remains unchanged in form but can be modified by degree:

• Positive: συντόμως (concisely)
• Comparative: συντομώτερον (more concisely)
• Superlative: συντομώτατα (most concisely)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes συντόμως’s use in formal rhetoric. Thayer’s notes its development from literal cutting to metaphorical brevity. LSJ documents extensive classical usage in formal speeches. Vine’s connects it to efficient communication. Strong’s highlights its compound nature. LEH notes Septuagint usage in diplomatic contexts. Moulton and Milligan find it common in official correspondence, suggesting formal register.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
But that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency [συντόμως] a few words. Acts 24:4

Additional References:
None – This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

συντόμως reminds us that powerful truth can be communicated efficiently. Just as Paul used concise, respectful speech before authorities, we too can share the gospel with both brevity and impact. This word teaches us that the message of King Jesus doesn’t require verbose explanation but can be delivered with precision and power.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word became a technical term in ancient rhetoric for summarizing arguments
2. It was commonly used in Greek medical texts for describing quick surgical procedures
3. Early Christian apologists adopted it as a style marker for efficient gospel presentation

Strong’s G4935: An adverb derived from σύν (with) and τέμνω (to cut), meaning “concisely” or “briefly.” Used in formal speech contexts, particularly in Acts, demonstrating respectful brevity when addressing authority while maintaining clear communication of truth.

Part of speech: Adverb

Tags: brevity, concise, efficient, communication, rhetoric, speech, Paul, defense, wisdom, clarity​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​