συμφύω (sumphuō)
sumphuō
to grow with
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb sumphuō describes a process of growing together or becoming joined by nature. Its core meaning is rooted in the idea of two distinct elements merging into a single, cohesive unit through natural development. This word appears only once in the New Testament, located in Luke 8:7.
In that specific passage, it illustrates how thorny plants can choke out other growth. The imagery suggests an organic integration where one form of life overtakes another, highlighting the physical reality of being enveloped by surrounding vegetation. The term conveys a sense of inseparable union formed through shared growth conditions.
Etymologically, the word combines a prefix meaning "with" and a root meaning "to grow." This construction emphasizes that the joining is not merely superficial but involves a fundamental change in structure. Translators typically render this as "choked" or "overgrown," focusing on the result of the plants growing together until the intended crop is suppressed.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sumphuō paints a vivid picture of life growing alongside another, until one overtakes the other. In Luke 8:7, Jesus uses this image to show how thorns can choke out good seed. It is not just about competition; it is about integration. The thorns grow with the wheat, sharing the same soil and sun, yet their presence eventually stifles the intended crop.
This reminds us that our spiritual environment matters deeply. We are shaped by what we allow to take root in our hearts alongside our faith. When distractions, worries, or sinful habits grow with us, they do not just sit there; they interact with our souls. Over time, this shared growth can crowd out the life God intends for us.
May you find peace in examining what grows with your faith today. Let go of what chokes your spirit, and trust that God provides the space for true life to flourish. His grace is sufficient to clear the thorns and let His word take deep root in you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- having sprung up with [it]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συμφυεῖσαι1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 8:7
Some fell amid the thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it.
This verse uses sumphuō to describe how thorns grow alongside the seed, illustrating how worldly cares can organically integrate with and eventually choke spiritual growth.