### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb συντόμως (syntómōs, `{{G4935}}`) is derived from the verb συντέμνω (syntemnō, `{{G4932}}`), which means "to cut short," "to abridge," or "to finish quickly." As an adverb, συντόμως therefore conveys the sense of "concisely," "briefly," "summarily," or "in a few words." It implies a deliberate act of abridgment or a directness of expression, focusing on the essential rather than the superfluous. The core meaning is not merely "short" but "cut short" or "brought to a point," suggesting efficiency and precision in communication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term συντόμως (syntómōs, `{{G4935}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 24:4]]. In this passage, Paul is addressing the Roman governor Felix, having been accused by Tertullus, a skilled orator. The verse reads: "But that I may not detain you longer, I beg you to hear us briefly [syntómōs] in your clemency."
The context is crucial for understanding its significance. Tertullus has just delivered a lengthy, flattering, and ultimately deceptive accusation against Paul. Paul, in contrast, requests to speak συντόμως. This choice of word highlights several aspects:
1. **Contrast with Accusation:** Paul's request for brevity stands in stark contrast to Tertullus's verbose and manipulative rhetoric. It suggests a reliance on truth and facts, which do not require extensive embellishment or flattery.
2. **Respect for Authority:** It demonstrates Paul's respect for the governor's time and position, indicating a desire to present the facts without undue delay.
3. **Confidence in Truth:** Paul's willingness to speak συντόμως implies confidence in the straightforward nature of his defense. Truth, unlike falsehood, often does not need many words to be understood or vindicated.
Paul's intention is to be direct and to the point, presenting the unvarnished truth without the rhetorical flourishes that characterized his accuser's presentation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verb from which συντόμως (syntómōs, `{{G4935}}`) is derived: συντέμνω (syntemnō, `{{G4932}}`). This verb is found in [[Romans 9:28]], where Paul quotes from the Septuagint version of [[Isaiah 10:23]]. In [[Romans 9:28]], συντέμνω describes God's decisive and swift action in carrying out His word and judgment: "For the Lord will carry out His word on the earth, completing it and cutting it short [syntemnōn]." This connection reinforces the idea of something being brought to a decisive, concise conclusion by divine will.
Conceptually, συντόμως stands in opposition to prolixity, verbosity, and elaborate, often deceptive, rhetoric. It aligns with virtues such as directness, clarity, and integrity in communication. Other related concepts include βραχύς (brachys, `{{G1024}}`, "short") or ὀλίγος (oligos, `{{G3641}}`, "few"), though συντόμως specifically emphasizes the *manner* of being concise, often implying a deliberate abridgment.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of συντόμως (syntómōs, `{{G4935}}`) in [[Acts 24:4]] carries significant theological weight. It subtly underscores a key principle regarding truth and communication in the biblical narrative.
1. **Truth's Simplicity:** The passage implicitly teaches that divine truth, or truth spoken in integrity, often requires fewer words than falsehood or deception. Falsehood frequently relies on elaborate arguments, flattery, or misdirection, which necessitate extensive verbal manipulation. Truth, by its nature, is direct and self-authenticating.
2. **Paul's Character and Ministry:** Paul's request to speak συντόμως reflects his character as an apostle committed to the unadulterated gospel. His communication style, marked by directness and substance, aligns with the integrity of the message he proclaimed. He did not rely on "persuasive words of wisdom" but on "demonstration of the Spirit and of power" ([[1 Corinthians 2:4]]).
3. **Divine Economy of Words:** While God's revelation is vast and deep, His core commands and truths are often presented with profound conciseness (e.g., the Ten Commandments, the summary of the Law). This illustrates a divine economy of words, where every word is potent and purposeful, lacking redundancy.
4. **Contrast with Worldly Rhetoric:** The scene in [[Acts 24]] serves as a powerful contrast between worldly, manipulative rhetoric (Tertullus) and Spirit-empowered, truth-filled communication (Paul). The former is verbose and deceptive; the latter is concise and revelatory.
### Summary
The Greek adverb συντόμως (syntómōs, `{{G4935}}`) literally means "concisely" or "in a few words," derived from the verb "to cut short." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Acts 24:4]] is highly significant, as Paul requests to speak συντόμως before Governor Felix. This request stands in stark contrast to the verbose and deceptive accusation made by Tertullus, highlighting Paul's commitment to directness, truth, and respect for authority. Theologically, συντόμως underscores the principle that truth often requires fewer words than falsehood, reflecting the integrity of Paul's ministry and the inherent power of unembellished divine revelation. It serves as a subtle yet profound commentary on the nature of truth versus deception in communication.
TRV