Boētheō (βοηθέω) means to help, to come to someone's aid, or to assist in a time of need. The word combines boē (cry) and theō (to run), literally meaning to run to the cry — to respond to a call for help with urgent action. It is used for human aid and for God's saving assistance.
The cry for God's help and God's response to run to the aid of His people is a central biblical dynamic. Hebrews 2:18 declares that because Christ himself suffered and was tempted, "he is able to help (boētheō) those who are being tempted." Jesus does not send aid from a distance — He runs to the cry, having experienced the same trials. This is the heart of the incarnation.