from συμπάσχω; having a fellow-feeling ("sympathetic"), i.e. (by implication) mutually commiserative:--having compassion one of another.
Transliteration:sympathḗs
Pronunciation:soom-path-ace'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective συμπαθής (sympathḗs, `{{G4835}}`) is derived from the verb συμπάσχω (sympaschō, `{{G4841}}`), which literally means "to suffer with" or "to feel with." The prefix συν- (syn-) denotes togetherness, association, or mutuality, while πάθος (pathos, `{{G3806}}`) refers to what one experiences, suffers, or feels. Therefore, συμπαθής inherently describes a state of "fellow-feeling," "sympathy," or "mutual commiseration." It is more than just understanding another's situation; it implies an emotional resonance, a sharing in their experience, particularly their distress or suffering. This word points to an active participation in the emotional landscape of another, fostering a profound connection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term συμπαθής (sympathḗs, `{{G4835}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the epistle of 1 Peter:
* **[[1 Peter 3:8]]**: "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind."
In this singular occurrence, συμπαθής is presented as one of a series of virtues essential for the harmonious functioning and spiritual health of the Christian community. Peter exhorts believers to cultivate these qualities, which are foundational for genuine fellowship and Christ-like conduct. The placement of συμπαθής between "unity of mind" (ὁμόφρονες) and "brotherly love" (φιλάδελφοι) underscores its role as a bridge between mental agreement and affectionate relationships. It suggests that true unity and brotherly love are nurtured by a shared emotional experience, where believers genuinely enter into one another's joys and sorrows. This sympathy is not merely a passive emotion but an active disposition that shapes interactions and fosters a truly empathetic community.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding συμπαθής is enhanced by examining related Greek terms:
* **συμπάσχω (sympaschō, `{{G4841}}`)**: The verbal root, meaning "to suffer with." This verb is found in [[Romans 8:17]], referring to suffering with Christ, and in [[1 Corinthians 12:26]], describing the mutual suffering of members in the body of Christ ("if one member suffers, all suffer with it"). This directly illuminates the active, participative nature of συμπαθής.
* **σπλαγχνίζομαι (splagchnizomai, `{{G4697}}`)**: To be moved with compassion, often from the "bowels" or "inward parts," which were considered the seat of deep emotion. This term frequently describes Jesus' profound pity for the crowds ([[Matthew 9:36]], [[Mark 6:34]]) and is a stronger expression of visceral compassion, often leading to merciful action. While συμπαθής emphasizes shared feeling, σπλαγχνίζομαι highlights the depth of emotional pain and the impetus for intervention.
* **ἔλεος (eleos, `{{G1656}}`)**: Mercy or compassion. This term often implies active intervention to alleviate suffering, stemming from pity. It is a broader concept, but συμπαθής can be seen as the internal disposition that prompts acts of ἔλεος.
* **φιλαδελφία (philadelphia, `{{G5360}}`)**: Brotherly love. As seen in [[1 Peter 3:8]], συμπαθής is a crucial component of φιλαδελφία, as genuine brotherly love requires a willingness to share in the experiences and feelings of fellow believers.
* **ὁμοφρονέω (homophroneō, `{{G3674}}`)**: To be of one mind. συμπαθής contributes to this unity by aligning not just thoughts but also hearts and emotions within the community.
### Theological Significance
The concept of συμπαθής holds profound theological significance, particularly in the context of Christian community and the nature of God's interaction with humanity.
* **Imitation of Christ:** Christ Himself is the ultimate embodiment of συμπαθής. Through the Incarnation, He "suffered with" humanity, entering fully into the human experience, including its pain, temptation, and mortality ([[Hebrews 4:15]]). His ministry was characterized by profound compassion (σπλαγχνίζομαι), leading Him to heal, teach, and ultimately offer Himself as a sacrifice for humanity's redemption. Believers are called to reflect this Christ-like empathy in their interactions.
* **The Body of Christ:** As articulated in [[1 Corinthians 12:26]], the church as the body of Christ is meant to function with a deep sense of συμπαθής. The suffering or rejoicing of one member should evoke a corresponding response in all others. This mutual participation is not optional but essential for the health, unity, and effective witness of the body. It prevents isolation and fosters a genuine, interdependent community.
* **Practical Love and Service:** συμπαθής is not merely an abstract feeling but a vital internal disposition that motivates external acts of love, mercy, and service. It is the emotional engine that drives believers to bear one another's burdens ([[Galatians 6:2]]), to weep with those who weep, and rejoice with those who rejoice ([[Romans 12:15]]). It transforms passive observation into active, compassionate engagement, preventing indifference and promoting tangible care within the Christian community and towards a hurting world.
* **Divine Empathy and Covenant:** While God is immutable and does not "suffer" in the human sense, the concept of συμπαθής points to a divine capacity for entering into relationship with His creation, particularly through the covenant and the Incarnation. God's compassionate response to Israel's suffering and His sending of Christ demonstrate a profound, active empathy that undergirds human συμπαθής.
### Summary
συμπαθής (sympathḗs, `{{G4835}}`) denotes a "fellow-feeling" or "mutual commiseration," stemming from the verb "to suffer with." Its singular appearance in [[1 Peter 3:8]] highlights its critical role as a virtue for Christian communal life, fostering genuine empathy, unity of mind, and brotherly love. This word signifies an active, shared emotional experience within the faith community, moving beyond mere intellectual understanding to a profound, empathetic connection. Theologically, συμπαθής mirrors the character of Christ, who intimately experienced human suffering, and is foundational for the church's identity as the interdependent body of Christ. It is a call to embody Christ-like compassion, leading to practical expressions of love and mercy in all relationships.
TRV