### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synēlikiṓtēs**, represented by `{{G4915}}`, means a **co-aged person** or an **equal**. Derived from σύν and a derivative of ἡλικία, it refers to someone of a similar age or standing. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting a particular moment of comparison.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4915}}` is found in Paul's testimony in Galatians. He describes his former life, stating that he "profited in the Jews' religion above many my **equals** in mine own nation" [[Galatians 1:14]]. In this context, the word is not merely about age but about a peer group of contemporaries within the same cultural and religious framework. It establishes a benchmark against which Paul measured his own advancement and zeal for the ancestral traditions before his conversion.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G2454}}` **Ioudaïsmós** (Judaism, i.e. the Jewish faith and usages): This defines the specific arena in which Paul surpassed his **equals**. His advancement was within the religious and cultural system of **Judaism** [[Galatians 1:13]].
* `{{G2207}}` **zēlōtḗs** (a "zealot"): This describes the passionate disposition that caused Paul to outpace his peers. He was not just advancing, but was "more exceedingly **zealous**" [[Galatians 1:14]] for his beliefs.
* `{{G3862}}` **parádosis** (tradition): This specifies the object of Paul's zeal. His devotion was directed toward the ancestral **traditions** he inherited, a focus he shared with his **equals** [[Galatians 1:14]].
* `{{G1085}}` **génos** (kin... nation, offspring, stock): This identifies the group to which his **equals** belonged. They were part of his own **nation**, a shared "stock of Abraham" [[Acts 13:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4915}}` is tied to its unique context in Paul's testimony.
* **Benchmark of a Former Life:** The term establishes the peak of Paul's identity prior to knowing Christ. By comparing himself to his **equals**, he emphasizes how deeply he was invested in the system of **Judaism** `{{G2454}}` [[Galatians 1:14]].
* **Contrast of Zeal:** Paul's statement that he was "more exceedingly **zealous**" `{{G2207}}` than his peers highlights the intensity of his pre-conversion life. This zeal was directed at the "traditions of my fathers" `{{G3967}}` rather than the truth of the gospel he would later proclaim.
* **Identity in Community:** The use of **equals** `{{G4915}}` frames Paul's former ambition in social terms. His status was measured against his contemporaries within his own **nation** `{{G1085}}`, underscoring the radical shift in his identity from one of peer comparison to one found in Christ.
### Summary
In summary, while **synēlikiṓtēs** `{{G4915}}` is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its single appearance is impactful. It functions as a powerful descriptor in Paul's personal account, defining the peer group he once sought to surpass in religious devotion. The term encapsulates his former life of zealousness for tradition, providing a stark backdrop for the transformative power of the gospel he came to preach.
TRV