συμφωνέω

I agree with

Definition

The verb συμφωνέω means to agree, to be in harmony, or to come to an agreement. In its most basic sense, it describes people reaching a mutual understanding, as when a landowner and laborers agree on a wage (Matthew 20:2, 13). It also carries the sense of things being compatible or fitting together, like new cloth not harmonizing with an old garment (Luke 5:36). In a collective spiritual context, it signifies believers agreeing together in prayer, with the promise of God's response (Matthew 18:19).

Biblical Usage

This word is used six times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Acts. In Matthew, it appears in both practical agreements (Matthew 20:2, 13) and the significant spiritual promise about prayer (Matthew 18:19). Luke uses it for material compatibility (Luke 5:36), while Acts employs it for dramatic narrative agreement (Acts 5:9) and for showing how prophetic words agree with current events (Acts 15:15). Its usage spans everyday contracts, metaphorical fit, and divine concord.

Etymology

Derived from σύν (syn, meaning 'with' or 'together') and φωνέω (phōneō, meaning 'to sound' or 'to speak'). Literally, it means 'to sound together,' evoking the image of musical harmony or voices in unison. This root meaning of harmonious sound underlies its developed sense of agreement and concord in various contexts.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant, especially in Matthew 18:19, where Jesus promises his presence and answer when two believers 'agree' (συμφωνέω) in prayer. This moves the concept from simple human consensus into the realm of spiritual unity and God's faithful response to the harmonious petitions of his people. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of this promise, highlighting the power of unified, concordant prayer in the Christian community.

In the ancient world, the concept of 'sounding together' (συμφωνέω) was deeply tied to music and civic life, where harmony was valued both in art and in social agreements. A verbal agreement, like the one for a day's wage in Matthew 20, was a binding cultural contract. The metaphorical use in Luke 5:36 about patching garments would resonate in a culture where preserving clothing was economically crucial.

ὁμοθυμαδόν (homothymadon, G3661) — emphasizes unanimous, collective accord, often in action. συγκατατίθεμαι (synkatatithemai, G4784) — to consent or agree by depositing one's opinion with others, implying formal assent.

Word Details

Scripture References