### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb synthrýptō (`{{G4919}}`) is a compound word derived from σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together," and θρύπτω (thryptō), which means "to crumble," "to break," or "to shatter." Literally, therefore, synthrýptō signifies the action of "crushing together" or "breaking completely into pieces." It implies a thorough and devastating fragmentation, far beyond a simple break. In its figurative usage, as found in the New Testament, it conveys the sense of "to dispirit," "to utterly break one's spirit or courage," or "to shatter the inner resolve." This figurative meaning points to a profound internal distress, a deep emotional or psychological fracturing rather than a physical one.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb synthrýptō (`{{G4919}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts.
* [[Acts 21:13]] - "Then Paul answered, 'What are you doing, weeping and **breaking** my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.'"
In this poignant passage, Paul is on his final journey to Jerusalem, despite numerous warnings from prophets and disciples about the suffering and imprisonment that await him there. The believers in Tyre and Caesarea, deeply concerned for his well-being, weep and plead with him not to proceed. Paul's use of synthrýptō here is highly significant. He is not accusing them of physically harming him, but rather of causing him profound emotional anguish. Their intense sorrow and entreaties are having a "heart-breaking" effect on him, threatening to shatter his resolve or cause him immense internal pain. The word underscores the depth of the emotional pressure Paul was under; it was not merely sadness, but a feeling of being crushed or overwhelmed by their genuine love and concern, which paradoxically made his difficult path even more challenging. Despite this profound internal struggle, Paul's subsequent declaration reveals his unwavering commitment to Christ, demonstrating a steadfast spirit even when deeply moved.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate synthrýptō (`{{G4919}}`), it is helpful to consider other Greek words related to breaking, crushing, and emotional distress:
* **Words for Physical Breaking/Crushing:**
* `{{G4937}}` συντρίβω (syntríbō): This word, also compounded with σύν, means "to break in pieces," "to shatter," or "to crush." It is often used for physical objects (e.g., a broken jar, [[Mark 14:3]]), but can also be used figuratively for a "bruised reed" ([[Matthew 12:20]]). While sharing a similar prefix and a root meaning of breaking, synthrýptō in its singular New Testament usage leans more heavily into the purely figurative, emotional breaking.
* `{{G2622}}` θραύω (thraúō): To break, shatter, or bruise, often implying a forceful action.
* `{{G4486}}` ῥήγνυμι (rhēgnymi): To tear, burst, or break, often in a violent manner (e.g., tearing clothes, [[Matthew 26:65]]).
* **Words for Emotional Distress/Grief:**
* `{{G3078}}` λυπέω (lypeō): To grieve, distress, or cause sorrow. This is a more general term for emotional pain.
* `{{G2342}}` θλίβω (thlibō): To press, afflict, or trouble, often referring to external pressures that cause distress.
* `{{G4442}}` πνίγω (pnigō): To choke or suffocate, which can be used figuratively to describe being overwhelmed by cares or anxieties.
The unique application of synthrýptō in [[Acts 21:13]] distinguishes it, emphasizing a deep, internal, and almost unbearable emotional shattering caused by the pleas of loved ones, rather than a physical act or a more general sense of grief.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of synthrýptō (`{{G4919}}`) in [[Acts 21:13]] offers profound theological insights into the nature of discipleship, human vulnerability, and divine calling.
1. **The Human Vulnerability of Spiritual Leaders:** Paul, the resolute apostle, was not immune to deep emotional distress. His heart could be "broken" by the tears and pleas of those who loved him. This reveals the authentic humanity of biblical figures, demonstrating that even those most dedicated to God's will experience profound internal struggles and emotional pain. It counters any notion that spiritual strength implies an absence of feeling.
2. **The Cost of Obedience:** Paul's path to Jerusalem was divinely appointed, yet it was fraught with personal cost. The "breaking" of his heart highlights the immense emotional toll that radical obedience to God can demand, especially when it means going against the loving desires of one's community. It underscores that following Christ is not always emotionally comfortable but often requires pressing through significant internal resistance and the pain of others.
3. **Steadfastness Amidst Affliction:** Despite the profound emotional impact described by synthrýptō, Paul's resolve remained unbroken. His subsequent declaration, "I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus," showcases true spiritual fortitude. This word, therefore, serves as a powerful testament to the triumph of divine purpose and unwavering faith over overwhelming emotional pressure. It illustrates that true strength is not the absence of feeling pain, but the ability to move forward in God's will *through* that pain.
### Summary
synthrýptō (`{{G4919}}`) literally means "to crush together" or "to shatter completely." Its sole New Testament usage in [[Acts 21:13]] is figurative, describing the profound emotional distress Paul experienced from the weeping and pleas of his fellow believers. It signifies a "breaking of the heart" or "dispiriting," conveying the depth of emotional pain and the internal pressure he felt. The term underscores the human vulnerability of even strong spiritual leaders and the intensity of the emotional and spiritual battles faced in obedience to God's call. Paul's use of the word emphasizes that while he felt the crushing weight of their sorrow, his commitment to Christ remained unbroken, serving as an example of steadfast resolve in the face of profound emotional challenge.
TRV