ὁμιλία (homilia)
homilia
association
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun homilia refers to close association or intimate companionship. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 1 Corinthians 15:33, where Paul warns that bad company corrupts good character. The word captures more than casual acquaintance; it implies the deep, formative influence of regular interaction with others.
Its root relates to being part of a crowd or group, suggesting that our moral and spiritual state is shaped by who we spend time with. This single usage highlights the biblical principle that relationships are not neutral; they actively shape the heart. Paul uses this concept to urge believers to be careful about their associations, recognizing that communion with others leaves a lasting mark on one’s life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word homilia points to more than just meeting someone occasionally. It describes deep, regular association where lives intertwine. In 1 Corinthians 15:33, Paul uses this term to warn that close companionship shapes character. Who you spend time with matters because their influence seeps into your own heart and habits over time.
This truth invites careful reflection on your daily relationships. It is not about isolating yourself from the world, but recognizing that intimacy breeds transformation. You are constantly being formed by those who walk closest to you. Choosing wisdom in these connections protects your spiritual well-being and aligns your life with God’s purposes.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- companionships1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὁμιλίαι1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 15:33
Don’t be deceived! “Evil companionships corrupt good morals.”
This verse uniquely applies homilia to show how deep companionship actively corrupts good character, emphasizing the formative power of close relationships.