ὀνίνημι (oninēmi)
oninēmi
to have joy
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb oninēmi carries the core meaning of being useful or providing benefit to someone. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Philemon 20, where Paul asks his friend to "benefit" him. The lexical data indicates that while the active voice generally means to profit or help others, the middle voice—used here—shifts the focus to receiving that benefit or advantage.
This single occurrence highlights a personal request for spiritual or relational gain rather than a material transaction. Paul uses this rare form to express his desire for Philemon’s action to bring him joy or relief. The term implies a tangible advantage derived from another person's conduct, framing the interaction as one of mutual care and practical support within the early Christian community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we serve others, we often expect nothing in return. Yet Paul’s letter to Philemon shows a different reality. He asks for joy from his friend, not as a demand, but as a spiritual benefit. This word reminds us that Christian relationships are meant to nourish both parties.
Your actions can bring real relief to those who care about you. When you live in freedom and love, you refresh the hearts of others. This is not selfishness. It is the natural result of walking closely with God together.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- I would have profit1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὀναίμην1×
Key Verses
-
Philemon 1:20
Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in the Lord.
Paul uses this rare middle-voice verb to express a personal desire for spiritual refreshment through Philemon’s obedience, framing the request as mutual joy rather than a transactional debt.