συμφώνησις (sumphōnēsis)
sumphōnēsis
harmony
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun sumphōnēsis denotes a state of harmony or agreement between parties. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 2 Corinthians 6:15, where Paul asks what portion believers have with unbelievers. The word captures the idea of two distinct entities resonating together in unity, much like instruments playing in sync.
Its meaning derives from the root sumphōneō, which literally means "to sound together." This etymology highlights that the agreement described is not merely intellectual assent but a deep, resonant alignment of nature and purpose. The term emphasizes compatibility, suggesting that true fellowship requires a fundamental shared frequency between those who associate.
Translators typically render this word as "harmony" or "agreement," preserving the sense of musical or structural concord. By using this specific term, the text underscores the impossibility of spiritual unity between opposing forces. The imagery suggests that just as discordant sounds cannot form a melody, those with fundamentally different spiritual natures cannot share in genuine communion.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sumphōnēsis paints a picture of two instruments playing in perfect sync. It suggests that true harmony is not just about agreeing on facts, but sharing the same spiritual frequency. When Paul uses this term, he reminds us that deep connection requires a shared nature and purpose.
This insight offers comfort as you navigate relationships. You do not need to force unity where there is no common ground. Instead, find peace in knowing that genuine fellowship flows naturally from a heart aligned with Christ. Let your life resonate with His truth, and you will find the right companions for your journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- harmony [has]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συμφώνησις1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 6:15
What agreement does Christ have with Belial? Or what portion does a believer have with an unbeliever?
Paul uses this unique word to highlight the fundamental incompatibility between Christ and Belial, showing that spiritual harmony requires a shared divine nature.