ὁμόφρων (homophrōn)
homophrōn
like-minded
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective homophrōn describes a state of being "like-minded" or having a shared intent. It combines the prefix for "same" with a word for "mind" or "spirit," pointing to an inner alignment rather than just outward agreement. In Scripture, it appears only once, in 1 Peter 3:8, where it stands as a key instruction for Christian community life.
Lexical sources equate this term closely with homonoos, another word for being of one mind. The distinction lies in the nuance of "spirit" or "disposition." While general agreement might be intellectual, homophrōn suggests a unified emotional and volitional stance. It calls believers to move beyond tolerance toward a genuine harmony of purpose and feeling.
This single usage carries significant weight for interpersonal relations within the church. By linking this concept directly to humility and compassion in its immediate context, the text presents unity not as a passive state but as an active, shared orientation toward others. It remains a rare biblical term that captures the depth of spiritual solidarity.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word homophrōn appears only once in the New Testament, found in 1 Peter 3:8. It describes a deep alignment of spirit and purpose among believers. This is more than simple agreement on opinions; it is a shared disposition toward others. Peter places this instruction right before commands to show compassion and courtesy, linking unity directly to how we treat our neighbors.
When conflicts arise in your community or family, this word invites you to seek harmony rather than winning an argument. It asks for a genuine connection where hearts and intentions move together. This kind of unity requires humility and active love. It is a practical call to live in peace with one another, reflecting the character of Christ in everyday interactions.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- single-minded,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὁμόφρονες,1×