The Greek word synḗdomai, represented by G4913, means to rejoice in with oneself or to feel satisfaction concerning something. This term is derived from the middle voice and signifies to delight. It is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The sole biblical appearance of G4913 is in Romans 7:22, where it describes a profound internal agreement with God's will. The verse states, "For I delight in the law of God after the inward man." This usage precisely defines the feeling of satisfaction not as an outward display but as a condition of the "inward man," pointing to a core desire that is in harmony with the divine standard.
Several words from its context in Romans 7:22 are crucial for understanding its meaning:
- G3551 nómos (law): This term refers to a law, regulation, or a principle. The delight described in Romans 7:22 is directed specifically at the "law of God." This concept of divine law is also central in passages like Hebrews 8:10, where God promises to put His laws in the people's minds.
- G2316 theós (God): As the supreme Divinity, this word identifies the source of the law. The satisfaction is not with just any principle, but with the law that originates from God Romans 7:22, who is the source of all good things Romans 8:28.
- G2080 ésō (inner): Meaning inside or inner, this word locates the delight within a person's core being. This specific phrase, the "inner man," appears in both Romans 7:22 and Ephesians 3:16, designating the spiritual self.
- G444 ánthrōpos (man): This word for a human being specifies who experiences this delight. The feeling belongs to the "inward man" Romans 7:22, highlighting a part of the human experience that connects with God on a spiritual level.
The theological weight of G4913 is contained entirely within its single, impactful use:
- The Regenerated Will: The word expresses the true desire of the "inward man," which finds genuine satisfaction and agreement in God's holy law Romans 7:22.
- A Basis for Conflict: This "delight" is presented within a larger discussion of spiritual conflict. It highlights that even when a believer struggles, their core self is aligned with and rejoices in God's standard.
- An Explanatory Statement: The verse begins with "for" G1063, a particle used to assign a reason. This indicates that the delight felt in God's law serves as the explanation for the internal spiritual condition being described in the passage.
In summary, G4913 provides a critical and concise insight into the believer's inner life. Although it appears only once, its use in Romans 7:22 is foundational for understanding the Christian experience. It defines the "delight" that the "inward man" has for the law of God, affirming the goodness of God's will from the deepest part of a person's being.
TRV