συμπαθέω (sumpatheō)
sumpatheō
to sympathize
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb sumpatheō means to share the same feelings as another person, or to sympathize with them. It is a compound word: syn- (together) and pathos (feeling or suffering). In the New Testament, it appears only twice, both in Hebrews. The first instance describes Jesus’ high priesthood, noting that He can sympathize with human weaknesses because He was tempted in every way, just as we are (Hebrews 4:15).
The second occurrence highlights the early Christian community’s response to persecution. When believers were imprisoned, their friends and family did not abandon them but instead shared in their suffering, demonstrating genuine sumpatheō (Hebrews 10:34). This word emphasizes emotional solidarity rather than distant pity. It suggests that true compassion involves entering into another’s experience, feeling what they feel because of a shared bond.
Unlike words that might imply mere intellectual understanding or charitable giving, sumpatheō captures the depth of relational empathy. In Hebrews, it underscores both Jesus’ identification with humanity and the mutual support expected among believers. The term reflects a profound connection where one’s heart resonates with another’s pain or joy, creating a shared emotional reality.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sumpatheō describes a deep emotional solidarity where one person shares the feelings of another. It comes from roots meaning 'together' and 'feeling,' suggesting that true compassion is not distant pity but a shared experience of suffering or joy. This concept appears in Hebrews to describe Jesus, who understands our weaknesses because He was tempted in every way, yet without sin.
This same spirit of mutual support was evident in the early church. When believers faced persecution and loss, they did not abandon each other but entered into their friends' pain, finding joy in a heavenly hope that outlasted earthly troubles. Such empathy strengthens our community, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles.
When you feel overwhelmed, remember that Jesus truly understands your condition. He does not observe from afar but relates to your human experience with genuine care. This assurance invites you to bring your honest feelings to Him, knowing Your heart resonates with yours.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- you sympathized1×
- to sympathize1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συνεπαθήσατε1×
- συμπαθῆσαι1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 4:15
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.
This verse establishes Jesus' high priesthood by showing He is not distant but shares in human weakness through temptation.
-
Hebrews 10:34
For 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.
Here the word illustrates how early Christians actively shared in each other's suffering during imprisonment and property loss.