from a compound of the base of μετρίως and πάθος; to be moderate in passion, i.e. gentle (to treat indulgently):--have compassion.
Transliteration:metriopathéō
Pronunciation:met-ree-op-ath-eh'-o
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word μετριοπαθέω (metriopathéō, `{{G3356}}`) is a compound term derived from μετρίως (metriōs, `{{G3357}}`), meaning "moderately, in due measure," and πάθος (pathos, `{{G3804}}`), meaning "suffering, passion, emotion." Literally, it conveys the idea "to have moderate feelings" or "to feel moderately." This implies a measured and appropriate emotional response, particularly in the face of suffering or human weakness. The semantic range extends to "being gentle," "treating indulgently," or "having compassion," specifically a compassion that is not overly sentimental or weak, but one that is balanced, understanding, and avoids extremes of either harsh judgment or detached indifference. It describes a disposition that can empathize with human frailty without being overwhelmed by it, allowing for a gentle and understanding approach.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word μετριοπαθέω (metriopathéō, `{{G3356}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Hebrews 5:2]].
In this singular occurrence, the author of Hebrews describes a necessary quality for the high priest: "He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and wayward, since he himself is subject to weakness" ([[Hebrews 5:2]] ESV). The phrase "deal gently" translates μετριοπαθέω. The immediate context is the qualifications of the Levitical high priest, who is chosen from among men to represent them before God. The ability to μετριοπαθέω is directly linked to the high priest's own shared humanity and susceptibility to "weakness" (ἀσθένεια). Because the high priest himself experiences human limitations, temptations, and failures, he can understand and respond appropriately (with measured compassion) to the ignorance and errors of the people. This quality prevents him from being overly severe or unsympathetic in his mediatorial role. It highlights the importance of empathy, born not of mere intellectual understanding, but of shared experience, in dealing with those who stumble.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Components:**
* μετρίως (metriōs, `{{G3357}}`): "moderately, in due measure." This emphasizes the controlled, balanced nature of the compassion.
* πάθος (pathos, `{{G3804}}`): "suffering, passion, emotion." This is the raw material or experience that is responded to in a measured way.
* **Synonyms/Related Concepts:**
* συμπαθέω (sympatheō, `{{G4834}}`): "to suffer with, to sympathize." This word is very close in meaning, emphasizing the shared feeling, as seen in [[Hebrews 4:15]] regarding Christ's ability to sympathize with our weaknesses.
* ἔλεος (eleos, `{{G1656}}`): "mercy, compassion." A broader term for active pity or kindness shown towards those in need.
* σπλαγχνίζομαι (splagchnizomai, `{{G4697}}`): "to be moved with compassion (from the bowels/inward parts)." This describes a deep, visceral compassion, often used of Jesus.
* **Contrasting Concepts:** μετριοπαθέω stands in contrast to harshness, severity, indifference, or judgment without understanding. It is distinct from ἀπάθεια (apatheia), a philosophical concept of complete absence of passion, as μετριοπαθέω involves appropriate and controlled feeling, not the lack thereof.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μετριοπαθέω (metriopathéō, `{{G3356}}`) is profound, especially in the context of the book of Hebrews.
1. **High Priestly Qualification:** The word highlights a crucial qualification for any priest mediating between God and humanity: the capacity for empathetic understanding and gentle dealing with human weakness. This is not merely a desirable trait but a necessary one for effective representation.
2. **Christ's Perfect Priesthood:** While [[Hebrews 5:2]] explicitly refers to human high priests, it immediately sets the stage for the author's argument that Jesus Christ is the ultimate and superior High Priest. The human high priest's ability to μετριοπαθέω is limited by his own sinfulness, but Christ's capacity to do so is perfect. [[Hebrews 4:15]] states that Jesus "is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, since in every respect he has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." Though sinless, Christ fully experienced human temptation and suffering, allowing Him to deal with humanity's failures with perfect μετριοπαθέω – a compassionate understanding that is both measured and entirely pure. His compassion is not born of a shared fallen nature, but of shared, though sinless, human experience.
3. **Divine Empathy and Mercy:** This concept reveals an essential aspect of God's character as understood through Christ. God is not an aloof or unfeeling judge of human frailty. Instead, through His Son, He demonstrates profound empathy and a willingness to deal with our shortcomings not with unbridled wrath, but with a measured gentleness and understanding rooted in Christ's perfect identification with humanity. It underscores the truth that God's mercy is not arbitrary but flows from a deep, perfect knowledge of our condition.
4. **Pastoral and Leadership Implications:** For those in spiritual leadership, μετριοπαθέω serves as a vital model. Leaders are called to approach those under their care not with harshness or detached judgment, but with a compassionate understanding born of their own shared humanity and susceptibility to weakness. This fosters an environment of grace and restoration.
### Summary
μετριοπαθέω (metriopathéō, `{{G3356}}`) is a significant Greek term, appearing uniquely in [[Hebrews 5:2]], which describes the ability to "deal gently" or "have compassion" due to a moderate and appropriate emotional response to suffering. Formed from μετρίως (moderately, `{{G3357}}`) and πάθος (suffering/passion, `{{G3804}}`), it signifies a balanced empathy, avoiding both harshness and indifference. In its sole biblical occurrence, it highlights a crucial qualification for the high priest: the capacity to understand and gently treat those who are ignorant and erring, precisely because he himself is subject to weakness. This concept is foundational to the book of Hebrews' portrayal of Jesus Christ as the perfect High Priest. Though sinless, Christ fully experienced human weakness and temptation ([[Hebrews 4:15]]), enabling Him to perfectly μετριοπαθέω with humanity. Thus, the word underscores the profound theological truth of God's empathetic and merciful approach to human frailty through Christ, providing a model for all who minister to others.
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