### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb σύνειμι (sýneimi, `{{G4895}}`) is a compound formed from the preposition σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb εἰμί (eimí, `{{G1510}}`), meaning "to be." Therefore, its core meaning is "to be with," "to be in company with," or "to be present at the same time." This signifies not merely physical proximity but often implies association, companionship, and shared experience. The semantic range is quite narrow, emphasizing the state of being present alongside another or others, suggesting a relational rather than merely locational aspect.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb σύνειμι (sýneimi, `{{G4895}}`) occurs in the New Testament in only one instance, in its imperfect indicative form, συνῆσαν (synēsan), in [[Luke 9:18]]. The passage reads: "And it came about that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him (συνῆσαν αὐτῷ)." This single occurrence is profoundly insightful. While Jesus was praying *alone* in the sense of being apart from the crowds, his disciples were nonetheless *with him*. This highlights a crucial aspect of discipleship: constant companionship and proximity to the Master. They were present to observe, to learn, and to share in the intimate moments of Jesus' life, even when he sought solitude from the general populace. Their "being with" Jesus was foundational to their formation, allowing them to witness his spiritual disciplines and the depth of his relationship with the Father, which would later inform Peter's confession immediately following this scene. The imperfect tense, συνῆσαν, suggests a continuous state of being with him, underscoring their ongoing presence and commitment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary components of σύνειμι (sýneimi, `{{G4895}}`) are foundational: σύν (syn, `{{G4862}}`), the prefix denoting association, union, or accompaniment, and εἰμί (eimí, `{{G1510}}`), the verb of existence. Other related terms that convey presence or companionship include:
* μετά (metá, `{{G3326}}`): A preposition meaning "with," often indicating association or accompaniment, similar to σύν but with slightly different nuances depending on the case it governs.
* παρεῖναι (pareínai, `{{G3918}}`): "To be present," emphasizing physical presence or availability.
* ἀκολουθέω (akolouthéō, `{{G190}}`): "To follow," often used in the context of discipleship, implying movement with and adherence to.
The concept of "being with" Jesus is central to the New Testament's understanding of discipleship, fellowship (κοινωνία, koinōnía, `{{G2842}}`), and the very nature of the church as the body of Christ, where believers are "with" one another and "with" the Lord.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of σύνειμι (sýneimi, `{{G4895}}`) in [[Luke 9:18]] carries significant theological weight, particularly for understanding discipleship. The disciples' consistent presence "with" Jesus was not incidental but essential to their training. It allowed for:
1. **Observational Learning:** They witnessed Jesus' prayer life, his interactions, and his responses to various situations, providing a living curriculum.
2. **Relational Intimacy:** "Being with" implies a closeness that transcends mere instruction. It fosters a bond of fellowship and shared life, mirroring the intimate relationship God desires with humanity.
3. **Authentication of Witness:** As those who were "with him" from the beginning, they became authoritative witnesses to his life, death, and resurrection ([[Acts 1:21-22]]).
This concept extends to Christian life, where "being with" Christ through the Holy Spirit is the essence of salvation and sanctification. Furthermore, the call to Christian community emphasizes believers "being with" one another, fostering mutual edification, support, and shared mission, reflecting the Trinitarian communion. The very presence of God with His people, as in "Immanuel" (God with us), is the ultimate theological reality this word touches upon, albeit indirectly.
### Summary
The Greek verb σύνειμι (sýneimi, `{{G4895}}`), meaning "to be with" or "to be in company with," though appearing only once in the New Testament in [[Luke 9:18]], provides a profound insight into the nature of discipleship. Its use to describe the disciples' constant presence with Jesus during a moment of private prayer underscores the vital role of proximity, observation, and shared life in their spiritual formation. This "being with" Jesus was fundamental to their understanding of his ministry, their personal transformation, and their eventual commission as his witnesses. The word thus highlights the deep relational aspect of faith, emphasizing not only what one learns *about* Christ but the transformative power of *being with* Him and, by extension, with fellow believers in the journey of faith.
TRV