συμφωνία (sumphōnia)
sumphōnia
music
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun sumphōnia refers to music or a symphony, specifically the harmonious sound produced by musical instruments. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Luke 15:25, where the older brother returns from the field and hears this festive noise coming from the house.
Its root combines sym ("together") and phōnē ("sound"), literally meaning a joint or harmonious sound. The word was used in classical Greek to describe an orchestra or ensemble, emphasizing the collective nature of the performance rather than a single instrument. In the context of Luke’s parable, it signals the lively celebration of the prodigal son’s return.
Translators typically render it as "music" or "symphony," capturing the sense of joyful, instrumental accompaniment that marks the occasion. The term highlights the communal and celebratory atmosphere of the feast, contrasting sharply with the older brother’s isolated grief outside.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word sumphōnia describes a harmonious sound created by many instruments playing together. It was used in ancient times to refer to an orchestra or ensemble, emphasizing the collective joy of a performance rather than a single melody. In Luke’s parable, this music signals a time of great celebration and communal happiness.
When the older brother hears this festive noise, it highlights the stark contrast between his isolation and the family’s unity. The sound represents a restored relationship and a shared feast that welcomes back what was lost. For us, it reminds us that faith is often experienced in community, where voices and hearts join together in gratitude.
This imagery invites us to appreciate the joy found in fellowship. It encourages believers to value the collective worship and support of others, recognizing that our spiritual lives are enriched when we participate in the shared life of the church.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- music1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συμφωνίας1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 15:25
“Now his elder son was in the field. As he came near to the house, he heard music and dancing.
This is the only New Testament occurrence, where the music marks the joyous celebration of the prodigal son's return.