from σύν and ὠδίνω; to have (parturition) pangs in company (concert, simultaneously) with, i.e. (figuratively) to sympathize (in expectation of relief from suffering):--travail in pain together.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **synōdínō**, represented by `{{G4944}}`, is defined as to have birth pangs in company with another, or figuratively, to sympathize in expectation of relief from suffering. This highly specific term, built from components meaning "with" and "birth pangs," appears just **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a powerful and unique image of collective suffering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{G4944}}` is in [[Romans 8:22]], where it illustrates the state of the created world. The verse states, "For we know that the whole creation groaneth and **travaileth in pain together** until now." Here, `{{G4944}}` is paired with the word **groaneth** `{{G4959}}` to describe a universal, shared experience of suffering. The subject of this action is the **whole** `{{G3956}}` **creation** `{{G2937}}`, indicating that this condition is not limited to humanity but extends to the entire created order up to the present time `{{G3568}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used in conjunction with `{{G4944}}` help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G4959}}` **systenázō** (groan together): Used in immediate parallel with `{{G4944}}` in [[Romans 8:22]], its definition is "to moan jointly, i.e. (figuratively) experience a common calamity." This reinforces the concept of a shared, simultaneous suffering across all of creation.
* `{{G2937}}` **ktísis** (creation, creature): This word identifies the subject of the travailing. It shows that the action described by `{{G4944}}` is cosmic in scope, involving the entire created order [[Romans 8:22]].
* `{{G891}}` **áchri** (until): This term provides a temporal context for the suffering. By stating the creation travaileth in pain **until** now, it implies that this is a state that exists within a specific timeframe, leading toward a future point or event [[Philippians 1:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4944}}` is significant despite its single use, conveying a specific aspect of the relationship between God, humanity, and the created world.
* **A Shared Calamity:** The word itself, meaning to have birth pangs "in company," and its partner word **systenázō** `{{G4959}}`, "to moan jointly," establish that the suffering of the world is a collective experience. All of creation is united in this state.
* **Expectant Waiting:** The very image of travailing in pain, or birth pangs, implies a purpose. The definition of `{{G4944}}` includes "in expectation of relief from suffering." This suggests the groaning is not a death rattle but the struggle before a new birth or renewal.
* **Universal Condition:** By applying this term to the **whole** `{{G3956}}` **creation** `{{G2937}}`, scripture presents a portrait of a world that is fundamentally impacted by a state of suffering and is collectively longing for resolution.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4944}}` is a precise and evocative term that, in its one biblical appearance, captures a profound theological truth. It describes a collective suffering, like shared birth pangs, experienced by the entire creation. Its use in [[Romans 8:22]] paints a vivid picture of a world groaning in unity, not in despair, but in painful, hopeful expectation of a coming relief and renewal.
TRV