### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sýmphēmi**, represented by `{{G4852}}`, means to **consent unto**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term is formed from two words meaning "to say jointly," which illustrates its core idea of expressing agreement or assenting to a proposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4852}}` is found in a profound moment of self-reflection. The Apostle Paul describes the internal conflict between his actions and his will, stating that when he does what he does not want to do, he thereby **consents** to the law, acknowledging that the law is good [[Romans 7:16]]. This act of "consenting" is not an approval of the wrong action, but rather an admission that the law, which forbids the action, is righteous and correct.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this consent is framed by several key related words:
* `{{G1487}}` **ei** (if, whether, that, etc.): This particle establishes the condition for Paul's statement. The consent is given **if** he acts against his own will, highlighting a conditional self-awareness [[Romans 7:16]]. This is also seen in the affirmation, "**If** God be for us, who can be against us?" [[Romans 8:31]].
* `{{G2309}}` **thélō** (to wish, i.e. be inclined to): This word for will or desire points to the internal impulse that is at odds with one's actions. The struggle is doing that which "I **would** not" [[Romans 7:16]]. This word is also used to describe the desire for mercy over sacrifice [[Matthew 9:13]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This is the standard to which a person assents. It represents a prescriptive regulation, such as "the **law** of Christ" [[Galatians 6:2]] or, in this context, the moral standard against which sin is measured [[Romans 7:16]].
* `{{G2570}}` **kalós** (good): This term describes the quality of the law being consented to. It signifies that the law is valuable and virtuous, a quality seen in the call to perform **good** works [[Matthew 5:16]] and to not grow weary in **well** doing [[Galatians 6:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4852}}` is significant despite its single appearance, as it crystallizes a key aspect of the human condition in relation to divine law.
* **Conscience and the Law:** The act of "consenting" demonstrates the function of the conscience. Even when a person fails to obey the law `{{G3551}}`, their inner being can still "say jointly" with it, affirming that the law itself is **good** `{{G2570}}`. This is the central point of its use in [[Romans 7:16]].
* **The Nature of Inner Conflict:** The word highlights the division within the unredeemed self. It gives voice to the part of a person that agrees with God's standard, even while another part is unable to perform it. This is the struggle of doing that which one **would** not `{{G2309}}` do [[Romans 7:16]].
* **Acknowledgement of a Standard:** To **consent** to the law is to acknowledge an objective, external standard of righteousness. This admission is a foundational step in understanding personal sin and the need for a righteousness that comes from outside of oneself.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4852}}` provides a precise term for the act of agreeing with a standard even when failing to meet it. Its sole appearance in [[Romans 7:16]] is pivotal, capturing the internal turmoil of a person who recognizes the goodness of the law but cannot fulfill it on their own. The word **sýmphēmi** powerfully illustrates how the conscience can bear witness to God's righteousness, creating an internal "consent" that validates the law's moral authority.
TRV