συγγενίς (sungenis)
sungenis
relative
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The word syngenēs describes a close family connection, translating simply to "relative" or "kinsman." It appears only once in the New Testament, found in Luke 1:36 where the angel Gabriel tells Mary that her elderly relative Elizabeth has conceived a son. In this context, it highlights the personal bond between two women who would later visit one another.
Etymologically, the term combines syn ("with") and genos ("family" or "race"), emphasizing shared lineage rather than just legal ties. While the masculine form is more common in classical Greek, Luke uses a late feminine variant here to refer specifically to Elizabeth. This single usage underscores the importance of family networks in the narrative of Jesus’ birth.
Translators consistently render it as "relative" or "kinswoman," avoiding broader terms like "friend" to preserve the blood relation. The specificity of the word reminds readers that the events surrounding Christ’s arrival were deeply rooted in existing human relationships and familial obligations.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word συγγενὴς (sungenēs) simply means relative, pointing to a bond of shared family or lineage. In Luke 1:36, the angel Gabriel uses it to describe Elizabeth as Mary’s kinswoman. This single occurrence in the New Testament highlights how God often works through existing human connections and family networks.
Understanding this term reminds us that our faith is not lived in isolation. The miraculous events surrounding Jesus’ birth were grounded in real, tangible relationships between two women who supported one another. It encourages us to value the kinship we share with others in the body of Christ.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- relative1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συγγενίς1×
Key Verses
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Luke 1:36
Behold, Elizabeth your relative also has conceived a son in her old age; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren.
This verse uses the word to identify Elizabeth as Mary's kinswoman, establishing the familial bond that leads to their subsequent meeting and mutual encouragement.