Romans 8:22

For. Introducing the proof of the hope, not of the bondage. Groaneth - travaileth together [σ υ σ τ ε ν α ζ ε ι - σ υ ν ω δ ι ν ε ι]. Both only here in the New Testament. The simple verb wjdinw to travail, occurs Galatians 4:19; Galatians 4:27; Revelation 12:2; and the kindred noun wjdin birth - pang, in Matthew and Mark, Acts, and 1 Thessalonians 5:3. See on Mark 13:9; Acts 2:24. Together refers to the common longing of all the elements of the creation, not to its longing in common with God's children. "Nature, with its melancholy charm, resembles a bride who, at the very moment when she was fully attired for marriage, saw the bridegroom die. She still stands with her fresh crown and in her bridal dress, but her eyes are full of tears" (Schelling, cited by Godet).