The Greek word onínēmi, represented by G3685, means to gratify or, in the middle voice, to derive pleasure or advantage from. It is an exceptionally rare term, appearing only 2 times within a single verse in the entire Bible. In its biblical usage, it is translated as to have joy, expressing a deep sense of personal benefit derived from another's actions.
The sole appearance of G3685 is in a personal appeal from the Apostle Paul to Philemon. Paul writes, "Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord" Philemon 1:20. Here, Paul uses the word to request a specific benefit or pleasure from Philemon's anticipated obedience regarding Onesimus. The context shows this is not a demand for worldly happiness but for a spiritual joy that is found "in the Lord," linking the requested action directly to their shared faith.
The meaning of G3685 is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only context:
- G373 anapaúō (refresh): This word, defined as to repose or refresh, is used in parallel with "have joy." It shows that the joy sought is a kind of spiritual rest and renewal Philemon 1:20.
- G80 adelphós (brother): Paul's appeal is addressed to his brother in the faith. This term defines a relationship that is both literal and figurative, forming the basis for the expectation of mutual joy and support Philemon 1:20.
- G4698 splánchnon (bowels): Paul asks to have his bowels refreshed. Figuratively, this word refers to the seat of pity or sympathy, indicating that the joy he seeks is not superficial but a deep, inward affection Philemon 1:20.
While rare, the theological weight of G3685 lies in its demonstration of the tangible results of Christian fellowship.
- Joy Rooted in Fellowship: The word is used to describe a benefit derived from a brother G80. It underscores the idea that believers can be a source of genuine pleasure and advantage to one another within the body of Christ.
- Spiritual Refreshment: Paired with anapaúō (refresh), the joy of G3685 is portrayed as a form of spiritual rest. This connects the actions of a believer to the ability to provide deep, restorative comfort to another, an echo of the rest promised by Christ Matthew 11:28.
- Affections "in the Lord": The request to have joy is qualified as being "in the Lord" G2962. This places the source of the joy and the relationship itself squarely within the context of shared faith and submission to the authority of the Lord.
In summary, G3685 offers a unique insight into the nature of Christian relationships. Though used only once, onínēmi powerfully conveys the idea of deriving deep, personal, and spiritual joy from the faithful actions of a fellow believer. It illustrates that Christian fellowship is intended to produce tangible benefits, refreshing the "inward affection" G4698 of believers and grounding their mutual pleasure not in circumstance, but "in the Lord."
TRV