συζάω (suzaō)
suzaō
to live together
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb suzaō means to live together or in union with another person. It combines the prefix syn, meaning "with," and zao, meaning "to live." In the New Testament, it describes a shared existence that goes beyond mere physical proximity. The sources highlight its use in describing life in intimate connection with Christ, both in the present age and in the future hope.
This word appears only three times in Scripture, primarily in Paul’s letters such as Romans, 2 Corinthians, and 2 Timothy. In 2 Corinthians 7:3, Paul uses it to express his deep emotional bond with the Corinthian believers, stating they share in his life. More significantly, in Romans 6:8 and 2 Timothy 2:11-12, it describes the believer’s spiritual union with Christ. Here, it is often paired with the idea of dying with Him, suggesting that true Christian life is a shared existence where one’s fate and identity are bound up with Jesus.
Translators typically render suzaō as "live with" or "live together." This simple phrasing captures the essence of the word: a close, abiding relationship. It is not just about being near someone, but about sharing in their life and destiny. The theological weight lies in this union, portraying the Christian experience as a participation in the life of Christ.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word συζάω (suzaō) carries a profound promise for your spiritual life. It means to live together, combining 'with' and 'to live.' This is not just about being near Jesus, but sharing in His very existence. When you trust in Him, your life becomes intertwined with His, creating a bond that death cannot break.
In Romans 6:8, Paul reminds us that if we died with Christ, we will also live with him. This truth offers deep comfort. Your struggles and sorrows are not faced alone. You share in the life of the One who conquered death, giving you hope that extends far beyond this present age.
This shared existence is a gift of grace. It invites you to rest in the security of your union with Christ. No matter what challenges arise, you are held in a relationship that is eternal and unshakeable, anchored in the faithfulness of God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- we will live with [Him];1×
- we will live with1×
- to live together.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συζῆν.1×
- συζήσομεν·1×
- συζήσομεν1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 6:8
But if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him,
This verse establishes the core theological link between dying with Christ and the future hope of living together with Him.
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II Timothy 2:11
This saying is trustworthy: “For if we died with him, we will also live with him.
Here the phrase appears in a trustworthy saying that reinforces the certainty of sharing Christ's life after sharing His death.
-
II Corinthians 7:3
I say this not to condemn you, for I have said before that you are in our hearts to die together and live together.
Paul uses this rare word to describe his deep emotional bond with the believers, showing it applies to intimate human fellowship as well.