συμμερίζω (summerizō)
summerizō
to share
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb symmerizō describes the act of dividing something into shares or having a portion assigned to oneself. Its core meaning involves sharing in a common lot, whether that is material goods or a spiritual inheritance. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 1 Corinthians 9:13, where Paul uses it to illustrate a principle of mutual support within the community.
In this context, Paul points out that those who serve at the altar have a right to share in the offerings. The word emphasizes a tangible connection between service and sustenance; it is not merely about receiving charity, but about participating in the same resources as those being served. This usage highlights the practical reality of Christian fellowship, where providers and recipients are bound together by a common source.
The term combines a prefix meaning "with" or "together" with a root related to parts or portions. This structure reinforces the idea that sharing is an active process of distribution rather than passive receipt. By using this specific word, Paul underscores that spiritual laborers should expect to partake in the material benefits of their ministry, just as temple workers do.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word symmerizō paints a picture of shared life rather than distant charity. In 1 Corinthians 9:13, Paul reminds us that those who serve at the altar have a right to partake in its offerings. This is not about begging for handouts but recognizing that providers and recipients are bound by a common source. When we support ministry or help others, we are not just giving away resources; we are entering into a mutual relationship where everyone shares in the same blessings.
This truth invites us to view our generosity as participation rather than sacrifice. We do not lose what we give; instead, we join hands with those we serve at the same table. It is a gentle reminder that Christian fellowship involves tangible connection. Your support helps sustain the work of God’s kingdom, and in doing so, you share in the spiritual fruit it produces.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- partake?1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συμμερίζονται;1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 9:13
Don’t you know that those who serve around sacred things eat from the things of the temple, and those who wait on the altar have their portion with the altar?
Paul uses this rare term to establish that temple workers have a rightful claim to share in the altar's offerings, grounding their support in divine order rather than human obligation.