σύμφωνος (sumphōnos)
sumphōnos
mutual consent
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective sumphōnos describes something that is in harmony or agreement, literally meaning "agreeing in sound." Its root combines a prefix indicating togetherness with the word for voice or sound. In secular Greek and the Septuagint, it often referred to musical concord, but in the New Testament, it takes on a relational sense of mutual consent.
This term appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 7:5. Paul uses it to describe the marital relationship, stating that spouses should not deprive each other except by mutual agreement. The word emphasizes that such an arrangement must be a shared decision, "by accord" or compact, rather than a unilateral choice. It frames the temporary abstinence as a cooperative act between two voices singing in tune.
The rarity of the word highlights its specific weight. By choosing sumphōnos instead of a more general term for agreement, Paul underscores the necessity of unity and shared purpose in marriage. The image suggests that even in matters of physical intimacy, the couple’s wills must be aligned, creating a single harmonious direction rather than discordant or separate paths.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sumphōnos paints a picture of two voices singing in perfect harmony. It appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 7:5, where Paul addresses marital intimacy. He uses this specific term to describe temporary abstinence, insisting it must happen by mutual consent. This is not about one partner making a unilateral decision, but about two people agreeing together on a shared purpose.
This concept invites couples to view their relationship as a cooperative partnership. When spouses align their wills, even in difficult seasons or specific spiritual disciplines, they create unity rather than discord. It reminds us that true harmony requires listening and agreeing, ensuring that both voices are heard and respected in the rhythm of married life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- mutual agreement1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- συμφώνου1×
Key Verses
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I Corinthians 7:5
Don’t deprive one another, unless it is by consent for a season, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer, and may be together again, that Satan doesn’t tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
Paul uses this rare term to specify that temporary abstinence must be a joint decision, preventing one spouse from unilaterally withholding intimacy.