μετριοπαθέω (metriopatheō)
metriopatheō
be gentle
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb metriopatheō describes a posture of gentle forbearance, specifically in how one responds to the failings or sins of others. It comes from roots meaning "moderate" and "passion," suggesting a person who does not let their emotions run wild when provoked. Instead of reacting with harsh anger or deep grief over the faults of neighbors, this word points to a measured, calm compassion that bears with people gently.
This term appears only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 5:2. The author uses it to describe how high priests relate to the ignorant and wayward members of their community. Rather than condemning them sharply, the priest is expected to deal with them with this specific kind of restrained gentleness. It highlights a leadership quality where emotional self-control enables patient care for those who stumble.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word metriopatheō invites us to practice a gentle forbearance when others stumble. It suggests that we do not let our emotions run wild in response to the faults of those around us. Instead, we offer measured compassion and calm support.
This posture is especially relevant for leaders and mentors. Like the high priest described in Hebrews, we are reminded that we too are surrounded by weakness. Recognizing our own limitations helps us extend patience rather than harsh judgment to those who are ignorant or going astray.
When you feel provoked or frustrated, remember that true strength often looks like restraint. By choosing gentleness over anger, you create space for healing and growth in your relationships with others.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to exercise forbearance1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μετριοπαθεῖν1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 5:2
The high priest can deal gently with those who are ignorant and going astray, because he himself is also surrounded with weakness.
This verse establishes the model for gentle leadership by linking the priest's forbearance to his own awareness of human weakness.