from σύν and κρίνω; to judge of one thing in connection with another, i.e. combine (spiritual ideas with appropriate expressions) or collate (one person with another by way of contrast or resemblance):--compare among (with).
Transliteration:synkrínō
Pronunciation:soong-kree'-no
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4793 συγκρίνω (synkrínō) is a compound verb derived from σύν (syn) meaning "with" or "together," and κρίνω (krinō) `{{G2919}}` meaning "to judge," "to discern," or "to decide." The combination inherently suggests a process of judgment or discernment that involves bringing two or more things into relation with each other. Its core meaning thus encompasses "to judge together," "to compare," "to collate," or "to discern by comparison."
The semantic range of συγκρίνω in ancient Greek literature includes several nuances:
1. **To compare:** To bring things together for the purpose of noting similarities or differences, to put side by side for examination. This can be for a positive purpose (to understand better) or a negative one (to criticize or show superiority/inferiority).
2. **To combine/Interpret:** To bring together disparate elements to form a coherent whole, or to interpret one thing in light of another. This sense is particularly relevant when dealing with abstract concepts or spiritual realities, suggesting the act of explaining or making sense of something by relating it to its appropriate counterpart or context.
3. **To discern/Evaluate:** By comparing, one makes a judgment or evaluation.
In its biblical occurrences, both of these primary senses are distinctly present, highlighting the versatility and specific application of the word in different contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G4793 συγκρίνω appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in the Pauline epistles, and each instance carries a distinct nuance of its semantic range.
1. **[[1 Corinthians 2:13]]**: "Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teaches, but which the Holy Spirit teaches; comparing spiritual things with spiritual."
In this foundational passage on divine revelation, Paul describes the manner in which spiritual truths are communicated. The phrase "comparing spiritual things with spiritual" (πνευματικὰ πνευματικοῖς συγκρίνοντες) is pivotal. Here, συγκρίνω is best understood in the sense of "interpreting," "explaining," or "combining." It suggests that spiritual realities, revealed by the Holy Spirit, must be communicated or understood by means of spiritual words, concepts, or analogies. Human wisdom is inadequate to grasp or articulate divine truth. The Spirit not only reveals the truth but also provides the appropriate means—the "spiritual words" or "spiritual understanding"—by which that truth is properly "compared with," "related to," or "interpreted by" other spiritual realities. This emphasizes the internal coherence and Spirit-given nature of divine revelation and its proper communication.
2. **[[2 Corinthians 10:12]]**: "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise."
Here, συγκρίνω is used in the more common sense of "to compare" or "to collate," specifically in a negative light. Paul critiques those who engage in self-commendation and self-referential evaluation. These individuals measure themselves against their own standards or against other like-minded individuals, rather than against an objective, divine standard. The apostle explicitly states that such self-comparison is "not wise" (οὐ συνιοῦσιν). This highlights the folly and spiritual danger of human pride and the establishment of false metrics for worth or authority. It is a warning against internal, subjective comparisons that lead to inflated self-esteem and a distorted view of reality, rather than humble submission to God's assessment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of G4793 συγκρίνω is illuminated by its relationship to other Greek words and theological concepts:
* **κρίνω (krinō) `{{G2919}}`**: The root verb, meaning "to judge," "to decide," "to discern." συγκρίνω is a specific form of judgment that involves comparison.
* **ἀνακρίνω (anakrinō) `{{G350}}`**: "To examine," "to investigate," "to discern." Often used in the context of judicial inquiry or thorough examination, as seen in [[1 Corinthians 2:15]] where the spiritual person "judges all things." While similar in discerning, συγκρίνω emphasizes the act of bringing two things *together* for assessment.
* **διακρίνω (diakrinō) `{{G1252}}`**: "To distinguish," "to differentiate," "to discern." This word focuses on separating or making distinctions between things, such as discerning spirits ([[1 Corinthians 12:10]]). συγκρίνω can involve distinguishing, but its primary emphasis is on the *act of comparison* itself.
* **δοκιμάζω (dokimazō) `{{G1381}}`**: "To test," "to prove," "to approve." This verb speaks to the process of putting something to the test to ascertain its genuineness or quality. While comparison might be part of testing, δοκιμάζω focuses on the outcome of the test.
Theological concepts closely related to συγκρίνω include:
* **Divine Revelation:** The process by which God makes Himself and His truths known.
* **Spiritual Discernment:** The Spirit-enabled ability to understand and evaluate spiritual matters.
* **Human Wisdom vs. Divine Wisdom:** The stark contrast between the two, especially regarding the ability to comprehend spiritual realities.
* **Humility:** The proper self-assessment that avoids self-commendation and relies on God's standard.
* **False Standards:** The danger of evaluating oneself or others based on subjective, human-centric criteria.
### Theological Significance
The sparse but significant occurrences of G4793 συγκρίνω underscore profound theological truths concerning both divine revelation and human conduct.
In **[[1 Corinthians 2:13]]**, the word highlights the **Holy Spirit's indispensable role** in both the impartation and the interpretation of spiritual truth. The divine method of communicating spiritual realities is not through human eloquence or philosophical constructs, but by "comparing spiritual things with spiritual." This implies that divine revelation is a coherent, self-interpreting whole, where one spiritual truth illuminates another. It posits that the Spirit of God provides not only the content of revelation but also the appropriate spiritual framework and language for its understanding and expression. This is a powerful statement about the inadequacy of human wisdom to grasp the things of God and the necessity of divine enablement for true spiritual comprehension. It suggests that Scripture, being Spirit-breathed, is its own best interpreter, with spiritual truths being understood in light of other spiritual truths.
In **[[2 Corinthians 10:12]]**, συγκρίνω carries a strong **ethical and practical warning**. Paul uses it to expose the folly and spiritual danger of self-referential comparison. When individuals "measure themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves," they establish a false, circular standard of evaluation. This leads to pride, self-deception, and an inability to perceive true spiritual worth or authority, which can only be found in Christ and according to God's standards. The theological significance here lies in advocating for **humility and an external, divine standard** for all self-assessment and evaluation of others. True wisdom is found not in looking horizontally at peers, but vertically to God and His revealed will.
Collectively, συγκρίνω emphasizes the necessity of **right judgment**—whether in discerning the truths of God or in evaluating human worth. It sharply distinguishes between Spirit-led, God-honoring discernment and fleshly, self-serving comparison, serving as a crucial reminder of where true wisdom and authority reside.
### Summary
The Greek word G4793 συγκρίνω (synkrínō), derived from "together" and "to judge," means "to compare," "to collate," or "to discern by bringing things into relation." Its two New Testament occurrences, though few, are highly significant and illustrate distinct facets of its meaning.
In **[[1 Corinthians 2:13]]**, συγκρίνω describes the Spirit-enabled process of interpreting or combining spiritual truths with spiritual expressions, underscoring the divine origin and coherence of revelation, and the inadequacy of human wisdom for spiritual matters. It emphasizes that spiritual realities must be understood and communicated spiritually.
Conversely, in **[[2 Corinthians 10:12]]**, the word highlights a negative and unwise form of comparison: the self-referential evaluation of those who measure themselves against other humans rather than God's standards. This serves as a strong caution against pride, self-commendation, and the establishment of false metrics for worth.
Thus, συγκρίνω powerfully conveys the importance of proper discernment, advocating for a God-centered framework for understanding divine truth and for humble self-assessment, in contrast to the folly of human-centric comparison.
TRV