συγγνώμη (sungnōmē)
sungnōmē
concession
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun suggnōmē denotes a spirit of concession or indulgent allowance. It describes a willingness to tolerate imperfection or to refrain from insisting on one’s strict rights for the sake of peace and unity. The word is built from a prefix meaning "with" and a root related to perception or knowledge, suggesting an awareness that leads to forbearance rather than judgment.
This term appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul’s first letter to Corinth (1 Corinthians 7:6). Here, it characterizes Paul’s personal preference regarding marriage. He does not command celibacy as a universal rule but offers it as a concession, acknowledging that while it may be beneficial for some, it is not required for all. The usage highlights a pastoral flexibility that prioritizes mutual edification over rigid legalism.
Theological discussions often contrast this concept with strict justice. Where justice demands what is owed, suggnōmē offers grace by waiving certain expectations. It reflects a mindset that values relationship and spiritual growth above the enforcement of every possible right, providing a model for how communities can navigate differences with patience and understanding.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In a culture that often demands strict adherence to every rule, Paul offers a refreshing alternative in his letter to Corinth. He describes his advice on marriage as a 'concession,' not a binding command. This word suggests that God’s wisdom sometimes includes flexibility, allowing space for different life paths without declaring one superior to another in all circumstances.
This concept invites us to extend the same grace to others. When we recognize that some rules are matters of preference rather than absolute law, we can navigate relationships with greater patience. It reminds us that unity is often built not by insisting on our own rights, but by willingly setting them aside for the good of those we love.
Understanding this allows you to breathe easier in areas where you feel pressured to perform perfectly. It is a reminder that God’s heart prioritizes peace and mutual edification over rigid legalism. You are free to focus on what truly strengthens your faith and your community, rather than getting lost in unnecessary disputes.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- concession1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συγγνώμην1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 7:6
But this I say by way of concession, not of commandment.
Paul explicitly labels his advice on celibacy as a concession rather than a command, showing that not all spiritual guidance carries the same weight of divine obligation.