συντέμνω (suntemnō)
suntemnō
to cut short
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb suntemnō literally means to cut short or cut in pieces. In biblical usage, it carries a metaphorical sense of bringing something to a swift conclusion or executing a decision with speed. The word combines a prefix implying union or together with a root meaning to cut, suggesting an action that is decisive and final.
Its most notable occurrence is in Romans 9:28, where Paul quotes the prophet Isaiah. Here, the term describes God’s word as being "cut short" or executed with urgency. This usage highlights a theological point about divine judgment: when God speaks against sin, He does not linger but acts decisively to bring about His purpose.
Translators often render this word as "cut short" or "execute," capturing the sense of abruptness and finality. The image is not one of gentle persuasion but of immediate action, reflecting the seriousness with which God treats rebellion and the certainty of His justice.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word suntemnō carries the idea of cutting something short to bring it to a swift conclusion. In Romans 9:28, Paul uses this term to describe how God executes His work in righteousness. This is not a slow or hesitant process. Instead, it reflects a decisive action that brings about God's purpose with urgency.
For your faith, this offers comfort. It reminds us that God’s plans are certain and will be fulfilled without delay. When you face uncertainty or wait for answers, remember that God is actively working behind the scenes. His timing is perfect, and He does not linger in judgment but acts with clarity and purpose.
This assurance can steady your heart. You do not need to worry about whether God’s promises will come to pass. They are grounded in His righteousness and will be completed just as He has declared.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- brought swiftly1×
- bringing swiftly1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συντέμνων1×
- συντετμημένον1×
Key Verses
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Romans 9:28
for he will finish the work and cut it short in righteousness, because the Lord will make a short work upon the earth.”
This verse uses suntemnō to emphasize the swift and righteous execution of God's judgment, highlighting His decisive action rather than prolonged delay.