### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συναναπαύομαι (synanapaúomai, `{{G4875}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition σύν (syn, "with, together with") and the verb ἀναπαύω (anapaúō, "to cause to rest, to refresh"). The middle voice of the verb further emphasizes that the subject performs the action for themselves or experiences the benefit of the action. Thus, the core meaning of συναναπαύομαι is "to refresh oneself in company with," "to rest together with," or "to find mutual refreshment." It signifies a shared experience of rest, recuperation, or spiritual revitalization that occurs in the context of fellowship. The emphasis is not merely on individual rest, but on the communal aspect of finding solace and strength alongside others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb συναναπαύομαι (synanapaúomai, `{{G4875}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Romans:
* **Romans 15:32**: "that I may come to you with joy by the will of God and [[Romans 15:32]]*be refreshed with you*."
In this sole occurrence, Paul expresses his earnest desire to visit the believers in Rome. His anticipation of being "refreshed with them" (συναναπαύομαι ὑμῖν) is highly significant. It speaks to the deep spiritual need for fellowship among believers, even for an apostle of Paul's stature. The refreshment Paul anticipates is not merely physical rest from his arduous journeys, but a spiritual and relational invigoration derived from mutual communion in the faith. It implies a reciprocal exchange of encouragement, edification, and spiritual strength that takes place when believers gather in the Lord. This shared rest would prepare Paul for his onward missionary journey to Spain, underscoring the idea that fellowship provides essential spiritual sustenance for continued service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The components of συναναπαύομαι (synanapaúomai, `{{G4875}}`) offer insight into its broader semantic field:
* **σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`)**: This prefix consistently denotes companionship, participation, or union. Its presence in συναναπαύομαι highlights the communal and shared nature of the refreshment.
* **ἀναπαύω (anapaúō, `{{G379}}`)**: This verb means "to give rest, to refresh." It is used in various contexts, from physical rest (e.g., [[Mark 6:31]]) to spiritual rest (e.g., Jesus' invitation to the weary, [[Matthew 11:28]]). The related noun ἀνάπαυσις (anapaúsis, `{{G379}}`) also signifies "rest" or "refreshment."
* **Concepts of Fellowship**: The concept of συναναπαύομαι is deeply intertwined with biblical notions of fellowship (κοινωνία, koinōnía, `{{G2842}}`), mutual encouragement, and the building up of the body of Christ. It speaks to the vital role of Christian community in providing spiritual sustenance and support.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet potent use of συναναπαύομαι (synanapaúomai, `{{G4875}}`) in Romans 15:32 carries profound theological weight. It reveals that:
1. **Fellowship is a Source of Divine Refreshment**: The passage implies that spiritual refreshment is not solely an individual pursuit but is often found and amplified within the context of Christian community. Paul, guided by the will of God, anticipated this mutual refreshment as essential for his ministry.
2. **The Interdependence of Believers**: Even a spiritual giant like Paul recognized his need for the spiritual encouragement and refreshment that could only come through fellowship with other believers. This underscores the New Testament emphasis on the interdependence of members within the body of Christ ([[1 Corinthians 12:12-27]]).
3. **Preparation for Service**: The desired refreshment was not an end in itself but served as a vital preparation for Paul's continued missionary endeavors. This suggests that spiritual rest and communal encouragement are crucial for sustaining believers in their service to God.
4. **The Relational Nature of the Faith**: Christianity is inherently relational – both with God and with fellow believers. συναναπαύομαι highlights the joy and strength derived from shared spiritual experience, affirming that God designed believers to journey and grow together.
### Summary
The Greek word συναναπαύομαι (synanapaúomai, `{{G4875}}`), though appearing only once in the New Testament, offers a rich insight into the importance of Christian fellowship. Its core meaning, "to refresh oneself in company with," points to a mutual, shared experience of spiritual rest and invigoration. In [[Romans 15:32]], Paul's longing to be "refreshed with" the Roman believers underscores the vital role of communal spiritual sustenance for individual believers and for the advancement of God's kingdom. It teaches us that true spiritual refreshment often blossoms in the soil of shared faith, mutual encouragement, and Christ-centered community, strengthening believers for their ongoing walk and service.
TRV