συμπαθέω
sumpatheō
to sympathize
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word συμπαθέω (sumpathēō) is a verb that means "to sympathize." This word suggests a deep emotional connection with someone, where one person can feel and understand the emotions of another. The semantic domain of "Movement & Travel" may seem unrelated to sympathy at first, but it could imply a sense of shared movement or experience, which is essential for empathy. The word συμπαθέω occurs only twice in the Bible, indicating its limited but significant usage. This scarcity might suggest that the concept of sympathy is not a central theme in the biblical text, but its presence highlights the importance of emotional connection and understanding in human relationships. In the context of the Bible, συμπαθέω likely conveys a sense of shared emotional experience, where one person can feel and understand the emotions of another. This concept is essential for building strong relationships and fostering a sense of community.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences across the text
For we don’t have a high priest who can’t be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but one who has been in all points tempted like we are, yet without sin.
Hebrews 10:34For you both had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your possessions, knowing that you have for yourselves a better possession and an enduring one in the heavens.