G3805

Unveiling the Word

The Greek adjective παθητός (pathētós) translates to “sufferable,” “capable of suffering,” or “subject to passion.” It describes the condition of being susceptible to emotional or physical suffering and is often employed in theological contexts to refer to aspects of human nature that are impacted by sin and its consequences. This term is significant in its relation to the New Testament’s discussions of Christ’s passion, highlighting His capacity to experience suffering on behalf of humanity. The word appears notably in Acts 26:23, where it is used in a context that underscores the reality of Christ’s suffering as a central theme of Christian belief.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: παθητός, pronounced [pa-thay-TOS].

Etymology: The word is derived from the verb πάσχω (paschō), which means “to suffer.” The formation of παθητός suggests a passive or potential state of suffering, focusing on the ability or tendency to endure pain or emotion.

Part of Speech: παθητός is an adjective, specifically used in theological discourse to describe beings or entities that are capable of experiencing suffering or passion. It is commonly used in both singular and plural forms.

Defining Meanings

Sufferable: The primary meaning of παθητός is “sufferable,” indicating a state where one is capable of enduring or experiencing suffering. This meaning highlights the frailty of human existence in the face of pain and hardship.

Subject to Passion: Another significant interpretation of the word is its reference to being “subject to passion,” particularly in the emotional sense. This usage emphasizes the vulnerability of humans to their emotional states, which can lead to suffering.

Capable of Being Affected: The term also encompasses the idea of being “capable of being affected,” whether by external circumstances or internal emotions. This broader interpretation is relevant in discussions about human responses to sin and suffering.

Exploring Similar Words

πάσχω (paschō) [PAH-skho]: This verb means “to suffer” and directly relates to παθητός as it describes the action of experiencing suffering, while παθητός denotes the condition resulting from such actions.

παθηματικός (pathēmatikós) [pa-thay-ma-TEE-kos]: This adjective means “of or pertaining to suffering” and is used to describe a quality or characteristic related to emotional or physical pain.

ἀνέχω (anechō) [ah-NEK-ho]: This verb translates to “to endure” or “to bear” and differs from παθητός in that it emphasizes the action of enduring suffering rather than the condition of being capable of suffering.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Adjectives:

• Case, Number, Gender: παθητός is used in the nominative case, often appearing in both singular and plural forms. It is masculine in gender but can be adapted based on the noun it describes (feminine or neuter).

• Declension: Being an adjective, παθητός follows the rules of declension as applied in the Greek language, adjusting its endings according to the gender and number of the nouns it modifies.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term παθητός is significant in both classical and New Testament Greek, reflecting a deep understanding of human suffering and its implications. Lexicons highlight its relevance in discussions about Christ’s suffering and the human condition. It encapsulates a theological concept that connects the physical and emotional states of suffering to the broader narrative of redemption and grace in Christian theology. The word’s usage reflects an exploration of the complexities of human emotion and experience, emphasizing how suffering can lead to growth and understanding.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Acts 26:23: “That Christ should suffer [παθητός], and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should show light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.”

Romans 7:5: “For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death.”

1 Peter 2:21: “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered [παθητός] for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Example 1: Plato, Phaedo: “The sufferings [παθητός] of the soul lead it to seek truth beyond mere appearances.”

Example 2: Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “The capacity to suffer [παθητός] is central to understanding virtue and vice.”

Example 3: Euripides, Hippolytus: “In our passions [παθητός], we find the essence of our humanity and divine connection.”

Septuagint Example 1: Job 2:4: “Skin for skin, yes, all that a man has will he give for his life; he will suffer [παθητός] for his own sake.”

Septuagint Example 2: Psalms 69:26: “For they persecute him whom thou hast smitten, and they tell of the pain [παθητός] of those whom thou hast wounded.”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 53:4: “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows [παθητός]: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.”

Noteworthy Summary

The term παθητός (pathētós) offers profound insights into the nature of suffering and its implications for both Christ and humanity. It invites reflection on how suffering shapes character, faith, and the understanding of the human experience.

Did You Know?

1. The term is integral in Christian theology to explain the concept of Christ’s suffering and the significance of redemption.

2. In philosophical discussions, the nature of suffering is often examined in relation to morality and virtue.

3. The emotional dimension of suffering, as highlighted by παθητός, reflects the depth of human experience in the face of adversity.

Strong’s G3805: παθητός (pathētós) signifies “sufferable” or “capable of suffering,” emphasizing the transformative nature of pain and its role in the human spiritual journey.