prolongation from (to dart; probably akin to ῥύομαι); to strengthen, i.e. (impersonal passive) have health (as a parting exclamation, good-bye):--farewell.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhṓnnymi**, represented by `{{G4517}}`, literally means to strengthen. In the New Testament, it is used as a parting exclamation to wish someone health or well-being, translated as **farewell**. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both uses of `{{G4517}}` appear in the book of Acts as a formal closing to a letter. In [[Acts 15:29]], it concludes the decree from the Jerusalem Council to Gentile believers, wishing them well after laying out crucial instructions for church unity. Similarly, in [[Acts 23:30]], the Roman commander Claudius Lysias ends his letter to Governor Felix with **Farewell**, formally concluding his report concerning the Apostle Paul. In both instances, the word serves as a final, polite sign-off.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G4517}}` in [[Acts 15:29]] connects it to several key instructional terms:
* `{{G567}}` **apéchomai**: This word for **abstain** is central to the council's decree, defining the required conduct for Gentile Christians.
* `{{G1494}}` **eidōlóthyton**: Meaning **an image-sacrifice**, this refers to meat offered to idols, which believers were commanded to avoid.
* `{{G129}}` **haîma**: Translated as **blood**, its prohibition was a key part of the decree, respecting Jewish law and promoting fellowship.
* `{{G4156}}` **pniktós**: This refers to things **strangled**, meaning an animal choked to death and not properly bled, which was also forbidden.
* `{{G4202}}` **porneía**: This term for **fornication** or harlotry was a command against sexual immorality.
* `{{G1301}}` **diatēréō**: The letter states that if the believers **keep** themselves from these things, they will do well, connecting obedience to well-being.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4517}}` lies in its function as a benediction tied to right living.
* **A Wish for Well-being:** The root meaning of "to strengthen" or "have health" is not just a casual good-bye. It is a sincere wish for the recipient's welfare, both physically and spiritually.
* **Conclusion to Apostolic Guidance:** In [[Acts 15:29]], the farewell comes directly after the council's instructions. The phrase "ye shall do well" `{{G2095}}` precedes it, linking their well-being to their adherence to this guidance. The final "Fare ye well" reinforces this connection.
* **Formal Closure:** The word's usage in both a religious [[Acts 15:29]] and a Roman military [[Acts 23:30]] letter shows it was a standard and respectful way to end formal correspondence in that era.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4517}}` is a specific term used exclusively as a valediction, or **farewell**, in the New Testament. Though it appears only twice, its use in [[Acts 15:29]] is particularly noteworthy. It concludes a foundational decree for the early church, framing the final blessing as a result of the believers' faithful conduct and separation from pagan practices. It demonstrates a practical expression of wishing someone strength and health.
TRV