"use, custom; an established custom, practice, Jn. 18:39; 1 Cor. 8:7; 11:16*"
Definition and meaning
use, custom; an established custom, practice, Jn. 18:39; 1 Cor. 8:7; 11:16*
In the original Greek the word is written: συνήθεια
Historical context
John wrote for an audience familiar with both Jewish Scripture and Greek philosophy. The logos — the Word — was a term Greek philosophers used for the rational principle underlying the universe. John takes that concept and says: that logos became a person and lived among us. Crucifixion was the Roman execution method designed to maximize public humiliation, reserved for slaves and rebels.
The people who first heard this word were not reading a book — they were living through empires, oppression, exile, and covenant. Every word carried the weight of that reality. Understanding it changes how you read Scripture.
Scripture references
These are the most notable occurrences of synetheia (G4914) across the King James Bible.
But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?
But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God.
Refiner gives you the full lexicon entry, AI-powered verse insight, historical commentary, cross-references, and voice study — all in one place.
Free to start · Disciple $4.99/mo · Shepherd $9.99/mo
Common questions
Strong's G4914 (synetheia) is a Greek word that means: use, custom; an established custom, practice, Jn. 18:39; 1 Cor. 8:7; 11:16* It appears 2 times in the King James Bible.
The word synetheia (G4914) appears 2 times in the original Greek text.
Strong's G4914 is synetheia, a Greek word defined as: use, custom; an established custom, practice, Jn. 18:39; 1 Cor. 8:7; 11:16*. James Strong catalogued this in his 1890 concordance to help English readers study the original languages of the Bible.
synetheia is a Greek word found in the New Testament.