from σύν and γένος; a relative (by blood); by extension, a fellow countryman:--cousin, kin(-sfolk, -sman).
Transliteration:syngenḗs
Pronunciation:soong-ghen-ace'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term συγγενής (syngenḗs), `{{G4773}}`, is a compound word derived from σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together," and γένος (genos), `{{G1085}}`, meaning "race," "stock," or "kind." This etymology immediately points to a shared origin or common lineage. Its primary semantic range denotes a "relative by blood," encompassing immediate family members such as cousins, aunts, uncles, or more distant kin. This refers to those who share a common ancestry or are part of the same extended family unit.
By extension, συγγενής can also refer to a "fellow countryman" or one belonging to the same ethnic or national group. In this broader sense, the shared "kind" or "race" is not necessarily a direct familial bloodline but a common national or tribal identity. This dual application—from close familial ties to broader ethnic solidarity—is crucial for understanding its usage in the New Testament. The underlying concept is always one of shared origin, whether biological or national.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term συγγενής appears several times in the New Testament, illustrating both its narrower and broader meanings.
In the Gospel of Luke, the term frequently refers to close blood relatives:
* In [[Luke 1:36]], Elizabeth is described as Mary's συγγενής, specifically identified as her "cousin" in many translations, highlighting a clear familial connection.
* Similarly, in [[Luke 1:58]], "her neighbors and kinsfolk" (συγγενεῖς) rejoice with Elizabeth at the birth of John, indicating those within her extended family and social circle.
* [[Luke 14:12]] advises against inviting "your friends or your brothers or your relatives (συγγενεῖς) or rich neighbors" to a feast, again denoting those within one's immediate or extended family network.
* [[Acts 10:24]] describes Cornelius gathering his συγγενεῖς and close friends, suggesting those related by blood whom he held in high esteem.
Paul's epistles demonstrate the broader application of συγγενής to refer to fellow Israelites:
* In [[Romans 9:3]], Paul expresses his profound sorrow and willingness to be accursed for the sake of his "kinsmen according to the flesh" (συγγενεῖς κατὰ σάρκα), clearly referring to his fellow Jews, the nation of Israel. This usage underscores a shared national and ethnic identity, distinct from a direct familial relationship, yet rooted in a common Abrahamic lineage.
* In his greetings in [[Romans 16]], Paul mentions several individuals as his συγγενεῖς: Andronicus and Junia ([[Romans 16:7]]), Herodion ([[Romans 16:11]]), and Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater ([[Romans 16:21]]). While some of these might indeed be literal blood relatives, the context, especially alongside "fellow prisoners" or "fellow workers," often suggests they are fellow Jews who are also believers in Christ, highlighting a dual bond of ethnicity and faith.
These occurrences show συγγενής functioning dynamically, from specific familial ties to broader national identity, always rooted in a shared origin or "kind."
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding συγγενής is enriched by examining its relationship to other Greek and Hebrew terms, as well as broader biblical concepts:
* **γένος (genos)** `{{G1085}}`: The root of συγγενής, meaning "race," "stock," "kind," or "family." This fundamental term helps define the shared identity inherent in συγγενής.
* **συγγένεια (syngeneia)** `{{G4772}}`: The abstract noun form, meaning "kinship" or "relationship," referring to the state or quality of being related.
* **φύσις (physis)** `{{G5449}}`: Meaning "nature" or "natural birth," often used to describe inherent qualities or the natural order, which can include familial or ethnic descent.
* **σάρξ (sarx)** `{{G4561}}`: "Flesh." As seen in [[Romans 9:3]] ("kinsmen according to the flesh"), σάρξ often denotes physical descent or human nature, providing a contrast to spiritual kinship.
* **Hebrew Parallels:** In the Old Testament, concepts of kinship are central.
* אָח (ach) `{{H251}}`: While primarily "brother," it frequently extends to "kinsman" or "fellow countryman."
* עַם (am) `{{H5971}}`: "People" or "nation," often implying a shared ethnic or tribal bond.
* גּוֹאֵל (go'el) `{{H1350}}`: The "kinsman-redeemer," a pivotal figure in Israelite law and society (e.g., in the book of Ruth), who had specific obligations to his kin, underscoring the deep social and legal significance of kinship.
* **Broader Concepts:** The term συγγενής touches upon themes of family, tribe, nation, shared heritage, and the intricate web of social obligations and loyalties that characterized ancient societies. It also implicitly raises questions about who constitutes "one's own" in God's redemptive plan.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of συγγενής is multifaceted, touching upon themes of incarnation, election, and the nature of God's people.
1. **The Humanity of Christ:** While not directly applied to Jesus in the New Testament, the concept of συγγενής is foundational to understanding His full humanity. Jesus was "born of a woman" ([[Galatians 4:4]]), "made like his brothers in every respect" ([[Hebrews 2:17]]), and descended from Abraham and David "according to the flesh" ([[Romans 1:3]]). His συγγενής relationship to humanity, particularly to the lineage of Israel, underscores the reality of the Incarnation and God's identification with His creation.
2. **Paul's Burden for Israel:** Paul's passionate declaration in [[Romans 9:3]] regarding his συγγενεῖς κατὰ σάρκα reveals a profound theological tension. It highlights God's unique covenant relationship with Israel as His chosen people by physical descent. Paul's anguish reflects the ongoing divine plan for Israel and the paradox of their rejection of the Messiah, despite being God's "kinsmen." This underscores the enduring love and faithfulness of God towards His original covenant people, even amidst their unbelief.
3. **From Physical to Spiritual Kinship:** The New Testament introduces a radical redefinition of "kinship" through faith in Christ. While συγγενής primarily denotes physical or national ties, the overarching narrative moves towards a spiritual family of God. Believers, regardless of their ethnic or social background, become "brothers" and "sisters" in Christ, adopted into God's household ([[Ephesians 2:19]]). This does not nullify physical kinship but transcends it, forming a new community where spiritual ties often supersede biological ones ([[Mark 3:31-35]]). The use of συγγενής in [[Romans 16]] for fellow Jewish believers might hint at this intersection, where physical kinship is affirmed but now rooted in a shared spiritual identity in Christ.
4. **Social and Ethical Implications:** In a broader sense, the concept of συγγενής reminds believers of the biblical emphasis on family and community. While the New Covenant prioritizes spiritual relationships, it does not negate the importance of caring for one's physical family and community. The call to love one's "neighbor" often extended to one's fellow countryman, reflecting a broader sense of solidarity.
### Summary
The Greek term συγγενής (`{{G4773}}`) encapsulates the concept of shared origin, applying primarily to "blood relatives" and, by extension, "fellow countrymen." Its etymology from σύν (with) and γένος (kind/race) highlights this fundamental idea of common stock. Biblical occurrences demonstrate this dual usage, from Mary's cousin Elizabeth ([[Luke 1:36]]) to Paul's fellow Israelites ([[Romans 9:3]]).
Theologically, συγγενής is crucial for understanding the Incarnation of Christ, His genuine humanity, and His connection to the lineage of Israel. It illuminates Paul's deep burden for his ethnic kin and the enduring significance of Israel in God's redemptive plan. While the New Testament introduces a new spiritual kinship in Christ that transcends physical and national boundaries, συγγενής grounds our understanding of human relationships and the historical particularity of God's covenant with Israel. It serves as a reminder of both the bonds of natural affection and the profound spiritual redefinition of family in the economy of salvation.
TRV