Definition and Usage:
The term "condoled" refers to the act of expressing sympathy or sorrow to someone who is experiencing grief or misfortune. In the context of the Bible, condolence is often associated with mourning and comforting those who are suffering. The act of condoling is a demonstration of compassion and empathy, reflecting the biblical call to "weep with those who weep" (Romans 12:15).

Biblical Instances and Contexts:
The concept of condolence is woven throughout the Scriptures, often seen in the context of mourning and loss. One of the most notable examples is found in the Book of Job. After Job experiences profound loss and suffering, his friends come to console him. Job 2:11 states, "Now when Job’s three friends heard about all this evil that had come upon him, each of them came from his own place... They met together to go and sympathize with Job and comfort him."

In this instance, Job's friends initially demonstrate the appropriate response to someone in distress by coming to be with him in his time of need. However, their subsequent dialogues with Job reveal the complexity of offering true comfort, as their attempts to explain his suffering lead to further distress rather than solace.

Another significant example is found in the account of Joseph. After the death of Jacob, Joseph's brothers feared retribution for their past wrongs against him. Joseph, however, reassures them and offers comfort, saying, "So then, do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your little ones.” And he spoke kindly to them and comforted them" (Genesis 50:21). Here, Joseph's actions exemplify forgiveness and the extension of grace, key elements in offering genuine condolence.

Theological Implications:
The act of condoling is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of community and the interconnectedness of God's people. It reflects the character of God, who is described as "the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort" (2 Corinthians 1:3). Believers are called to emulate this divine compassion, providing comfort to others as they have received comfort from God.

The ministry of condolence is also seen in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. In the Beatitudes, Jesus pronounces a blessing on those who mourn, promising that "they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4). This assurance highlights the hope and solace found in God's kingdom, where ultimate comfort is provided through the presence and promises of Christ.

Practical Application:
In practical terms, condoling involves being present with those who are grieving, offering a listening ear, and providing support without necessarily trying to solve their problems. It is an act of love that requires sensitivity and discernment, recognizing that sometimes the most profound comfort comes from simply being there.

The church community is encouraged to be a place where members "bear one another’s burdens" (Galatians 6:2), fulfilling the law of Christ through acts of kindness and support. This communal aspect of condolence strengthens the body of Christ, fostering unity and demonstrating the love of God to a hurting world.(imp. & p. p.) of Condole.

Epistle xxxiii. To Andrew .
... To Andrew [32] . Gregory to Andrew. On hearing that your Glory had been severely
afflicted with grief and sickness, I condoled with you exceedingly. ...
/.../gregory/the epistles of saint gregory the great/epistle xxxiii to andrew.htm

The Endless Quest
... You must not expect to be flattered and fondled, and sympathised and condoled with,
as if there was some deep and awful mystery about you. Oh no! ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/whyte/lord teach us to pray/xxiii the endless quest.htm

C. The Third Period. Chs. 6:12 to 8:56
... his feet; of the domestic scene in the home of Mary and Martha; of the woman who
congratulated the mother of Jesus; and of the women who condoled with him on ...
/.../erdman/the gospel of luke an exposition/c the third period chs.htm

Condoled (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Condole. Multi-Version Concordance
Condoled (1 Occurrence). Job 42:11 And all his brethren ...
/c/condoled.htm - 7k

Ear-ring (6 Occurrences)
... all his brethren, and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance
before, and ate bread with him in his house: and they condoled with him ...
/e/ear-ring.htm - 8k

Condole (1 Occurrence)

/c/condole.htm - 6k

Conduct (93 Occurrences)

/c/conduct.htm - 35k

Golden (86 Occurrences)
... and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance before, came
to him, and they ate bread with him in his house, and they condoled with him ...
/g/golden.htm - 66k

Condoled: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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