σύμφωνος

harmonious, agreeing with

Definition

The adjective σύμφωνος (symphōnos) means 'harmonious' or 'agreeing with.' It describes a state of concord, mutual consent, or being in agreement, often implying a harmonious alignment of wills or purposes. In its single New Testament occurrence in 1 Corinthians 7:5, it specifically refers to a married couple mutually agreeing upon a temporary period of abstinence for prayer. The word carries the sense of a joint decision made in unity, not a solitary or imposed action. While not used elsewhere in the New Testament, its core meaning of harmonious agreement can be applied to other relational contexts in scripture by extension.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 7:5. In this context, it is applied specifically to the marital relationship. The Apostle Paul instructs that a husband and wife should not deprive each other sexually, except by mutual consent (ἐκ συμφώνου, *ek symphōnou*) for a set time devoted to prayer. Its usage here highlights the importance of partnership, mutual decision-making, and unity within the covenant of marriage, rather than unilateral action.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition σύν (syn, G4862), meaning 'with' or 'together,' combined with φωνή (phōnē, G5456), meaning 'sound' or 'voice.' Literally, it means 'sounding together' or 'with one voice.' This etymology vividly conveys the idea of harmony, like instruments or voices blending in agreement. The meaning developed from the literal musical sense to the broader metaphorical sense of concord and mutual consent in various life contexts.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word carries significant theological weight regarding the nature of Christian marriage and mutual submission. It underscores that spiritual disciplines within marriage, such as dedicated prayer, are to be undertaken in unity and by joint agreement, not as a means of control or deprivation. This reflects the broader biblical principle of considering one another within the body of Christ (Philippians 2:4) and honors the 'one flesh' union (Genesis 2:24, Ephesians 5:31). Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of 1 Corinthians 7 by emphasizing that the call to prayerful focus is built upon a foundation of harmonious partnership.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of harmony (συμφωνία, symphōnia) was a valued ideal in music, philosophy, and civic life. The word would evoke the image of a harmonious musical chord, a powerful metaphor for social and relational concord. In a cultural context where a husband often held unilateral authority in the household, Paul's instruction for a decision to be 'by mutual agreement' (ἐκ συμφώνου) presented a counter-cultural vision of marital partnership and mutual respect within the Christian community.

ὁμοθυμαδόν (homothymadon, G3661) — emphasizes being of one mind or accord, often in a group setting like the early church. ὁμόνοια (homonoia, G3675) — denotes unity of mind, concord, and like-mindedness. εὐάρεστος (euarestos, G2101) — means well-pleasing or acceptable, focusing on the result of harmony with another's will, especially God's.

Word Details

Scripture References