### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synḗtheia**, represented by `{{G4914}}`, means **custom**. Derived from words meaning "mutual habituation," it refers to an established usage or practice. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word's two appearances illustrate its meaning in different contexts. In [[John 18:39]], it refers to the established **custom** of the authorities to release a prisoner to the people at the Passover. In [[1 Corinthians 11:16]], the apostle Paul uses the term negatively, stating that "we have no such **custom**" when referring to contentious behavior, establishing a standard for conduct within the churches of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G4914}}` is used:
* `{{G5380}}` **philóneikos** (contentious): This word, meaning "fond of strife, i.e. disputatious," describes the behavior for which the church has no **custom** [[1 Corinthians 11:16]].
* `{{G630}}` **apolýō** (release): The **custom** mentioned in [[John 18:39]] was specifically to **release** a prisoner. The definition is "to free fully, i.e. (literally) relieve, release, dismiss".
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): The standards of **custom** are applied within the community of the **church**, defined as "a religious congregation... Christian community" [[1 Corinthians 11:16]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4914}}` lies in how it defines community standards through accepted or rejected practices.
* **Establishing Behavioral Norms:** By stating that the **churches** `{{G1577}}` have no **custom** for being **contentious** `{{G5380}}`, the word is used to set a clear boundary for proper conduct within the Christian community [[1 Corinthians 11:16]].
* **Acknowledging Civic Tradition:** The term is also used to identify a known, secular tradition, such as the practice to **release** `{{G630}}` a prisoner during Passover, showing its role in shaping social expectations [[John 18:39]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4914}}` is used infrequently, it powerfully conveys the concept of an established practice. Whether describing a civic tradition or setting a standard of behavior for the church, **synḗtheia** demonstrates that customs—and the explicit rejection of certain customs—are fundamental to defining a community's identity and order.
TRV