συγκρίνω (sugkrinō)
sugkrinō
to compare
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb sugkrinō carries the core meaning of joining or combining things together. Its root components suggest bringing elements into a unified whole, which explains its primary usage in 1 Corinthians 2:13. Here, Paul describes spiritual truths being expressed through words taught by the Spirit, effectively "combining" or fitting them together to convey divine wisdom.
While less common, the word also shifts to mean comparing or interpreting. In 2 Corinthians 10:12, it appears in a context where people measure themselves against one another, highlighting a contrast between self-evaluation and true spiritual standing. The sources note that in the Septuagint, this term can even relate to interpreting dreams, further emphasizing its sense of bringing understanding through connection or comparison.
Translators often render sugkrinō as "combine" or "compare," depending on the context. In Paul’s letters, it underscores how spiritual insight requires more than isolated facts; it demands a joined perspective that reveals deeper meaning. This usage reflects a broader biblical theme where truth is not fragmented but integrated.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sugkrinō invites us to look at how we understand truth. In 1 Corinthians 2:13, Paul uses it to describe how spiritual realities are fitted together by the Holy Spirit. This suggests that faith is not a collection of isolated facts but a unified whole. When we read Scripture, we are invited to see how different parts connect, revealing a deeper wisdom that human effort alone cannot reach.
Yet this word also warns against self-centered comparison. In 2 Corinthians 10:12, Paul notes that those who measure themselves against others lack true understanding. This contrast reminds us that spiritual growth comes from aligning with God’s perspective, not from judging our standing relative to others. It is a call to humility and trust in divine guidance.
For your daily life, this means seeking connection rather than competition. When confusion arises, look for the Spirit’s unifying work. This approach fosters peace and clarity, helping you navigate challenges with confidence in God’s integrated plan for your journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to compare1×
- comparing1×
- communicating.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συγκρῖναι1×
- συγκρίνοντες.1×
- συγκρίνοντες1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 2:13
We also speak these things, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual things.
This verse uses the word to show how spiritual truths are fitted together by the Spirit, emphasizing unity over fragmentation.
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II Corinthians 10:12
For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves. But they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding.
Here the term highlights the folly of self-evaluation, contrasting human comparison with true spiritual standing.