### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sýnesis**, represented by `{{G4907}}`, is defined as a mental putting together, i.e. intelligence or the intellect. It is used to mean knowledge or understanding. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its role in both human intellect and spiritual comprehension.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{G4907}}` denotes a faculty of comprehension that can be both natural and spiritual. It is used to describe the remarkable **understanding** of the young Jesus, which astonished those who heard him [[Luke 2:47]]. It is also presented as a core component of devotion, as loving God with all the **understanding** is considered greater than all burnt offerings and sacrifices [[Mark 12:33]]. In Paul's epistles, it is frequently portrayed as a spiritual gift. He prays for believers to be filled with spiritual **understanding** [[Colossians 1:9]] and confirms that the Lord is the one who gives **understanding** in all things [[2 Timothy 2:7]]. However, this human faculty is also contrasted with God's power, as God declares He will "bring to nothing the **understanding** of the prudent" [[1 Corinthians 1:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of understanding:
* `{{G1922}}` **epígnōsis** (recognition, i.e. (by implication) full discernment, acknowledgement): This term often appears as the goal that **sýnesis** helps to achieve. Attaining the "full assurance of **understanding**" leads to the "acknowledgement of the mystery of God" [[Colossians 2:2]].
* `{{G3539}}` **noiéō** (to exercise the mind (observe), i.e. (figuratively) to comprehend, heed): This verb represents the action of comprehension. Paul urges Timothy to "consider (noiéō)" his words so that God might grant him **understanding** (sýnesis) [[2 Timothy 2:7]].
* `{{G4678}}` **sophía** (wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)): This is frequently paired with **sýnesis**. Paul prays for believers to have "all **wisdom** and spiritual **understanding**" [[Colossians 1:9]], showing their close relationship in spiritual matters.
* `{{G4908}}` **synetós** (mentally put (or putting) together, i.e. sagacious): This adjective describes a person who possesses **sýnesis**. God’s plan will bring to nothing the **understanding** (sýnesis) of the "prudent (synetós)" [[1 Corinthians 1:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4907}}` is significant, highlighting how God interacts with the human mind.
* **A Divine Gift:** True spiritual comprehension is not merely a human achievement but a gift from God. Believers are encouraged to pray for it, as the Lord is its source [[2 Timothy 2:7]], and it is a key component of being filled with the knowledge of His will [[Colossians 1:9]].
* **An Element of Worship:** The command to love God involves the whole person, including the intellect. Using one's **understanding** in devotion is presented as superior to ritual sacrifice, making mental engagement a form of worship [[Mark 12:33]].
* **Comprehending Divine Mystery:** **Sýnesis** is crucial for grasping spiritual truths. It provides the "full assurance" needed to acknowledge the mystery of Christ [[Colossians 2:2]] and allows believers to understand the apostle's insight into that mystery [[Ephesians 3:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4907}}` is more than just intellectual capacity. It functions as a bridge between human reason and divine revelation. Whether as a natural faculty that astounds onlookers or a spiritual endowment granted by God, **sýnesis** is essential for a complete relationship with Him. It is the faculty through which believers can comprehend God's will, engage in true worship, and begin to grasp the profound mysteries of the faith.
TRV