a prolonged form of an apparently primary verb (, to slur); for which another prolonged form () is used as an alternate in some tenses (unless indeed it be identical with the base of ὄνομα through the idea of notoriety); to gratify, i.e. (middle voice) to derive pleasure or advantage from:--have joy.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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