συμπαθέω

I sympathize with, have compassion on

Definition

The verb συμπαθέω means to feel or suffer along with someone, to sympathize deeply. It conveys a shared emotional experience, particularly in suffering or hardship, going beyond mere pity to a genuine participation in another's feelings. In Hebrews 4:15, it describes Jesus' ability to sympathize with our weaknesses, emphasizing his shared experience of human temptation. In Hebrews 10:34, it is used of the believers' compassion for fellow Christians who were imprisoned, highlighting mutual suffering within the Christian community.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in the Book of Hebrews. Its usage is exclusively within contexts of shared suffering and mutual support within the covenant community. In Hebrews 4:15, it describes the high priestly empathy of Christ. In Hebrews 10:34, it describes the practical, compassionate solidarity of believers with those persecuted for their faith.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition σύν (syn, meaning 'with' or 'together') and the verb πάσχω (paschō, meaning 'to suffer' or 'to experience'). It literally means 'to suffer with.' The root connects to concepts of passion and deep feeling, forming the basis for the English word 'sympathy.'

Semantic Range

This word is crucial for understanding the nature of Christ's incarnation and priesthood. It affirms that Jesus, as our high priest, fully shares in and understands human weakness (Hebrews 4:15), which is foundational to the doctrine of his humanity and intercessory work. It also models the deep, mutual compassion that should characterize the church, as seen in Hebrews 10:34, grounding Christian ethics in shared experience.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'suffering with' was known in philosophical discussions of friendship and virtue, particularly in Stoic thought about shared humanity. The New Testament usage, however, infuses it with a distinctively Christian motivation—grounded in Christ's example and the practical bonds of love within the believing community facing persecution.

ἐλεέω (eleeō, G1653) — focuses more on showing mercy or pity, often from a position of superiority. οἰκτίρω (oiktirō, G3627) — to have compassion, often with a connotation of feeling pity or lamenting someone's state. σπλαγχνίζομαι (splagchnizomai, G4697) — to be moved with deep compassion, often described as a gut-level, visceral feeling.

Word Details

Scripture References