### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kýmbalon**, represented by `{{G2950}}`, refers to a **cymbal**. Derived from a term describing something hollow, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, yet it carries significant metaphorical weight in that single instance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2950}}` is in [[1 Corinthians 13:1]], where it is used figuratively. The Apostle Paul states that even if one could speak with the tongues of men and angels, without charity, that person becomes like a "tinkling **cymbal**." In this context, the **cymbal** is not described as a tool of worship or music, but as a source of hollow, meaningless noise, representing spiritual gifts exercised without the essential foundation of love.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage help to build this metaphor of empty noise:
* `{{G214}}` **alalázō** (to vociferate, i.e. (by implication) to wail; figuratively, to clang:--tinkle, wail.): This word is translated as "tinkling" and is directly applied to the **cymbal** in [[1 Corinthians 13:1]]. It can also mean to wail, as seen in the description of a great tumult [[Mark 5:38]].
* `{{G2278}}` **ēchéō** (to make a loud noise, i.e. reverberate:--roar, sound.): Used in parallel with the tinkling cymbal, this word describes the "sounding" brass in [[1 Corinthians 13:1]]. It emphasizes a reverberating noise, also used to describe the roaring of the sea [[Luke 21:25]].
* `{{G5475}}` **chalkós** (copper (the substance, or some implement or coin made of it):--brass, money.): This is the "brass" that is paired with the cymbal in [[1 Corinthians 13:1]]. While it often refers to the metal itself or money [[Mark 6:8]], here it represents another object that simply makes a loud, empty sound.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2950}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use as a metaphor.
* **Emptiness of Gifts without Love:** The primary function of the **cymbal** in scripture is to illustrate that spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues, are worthless if not motivated by charity. They become nothing more than noise.
* **A Symbol of Hollow Action:** Paired with "sounding brass," the tinkling **cymbal** creates an image of irritating, hollow clanging. It represents religious action or speech that lacks the substance, purpose, and value that love provides.
* **Contrastive Illustration:** The word serves as a stark, negative example to elevate the importance of charity. The loud, empty sound of the **cymbal** stands in direct opposition to the productive and edifying nature of love.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2950}}` **kýmbalon** is a word whose biblical significance is entirely derived from its metaphorical use. Though it simply means **cymbal**, its context in [[1 Corinthians 13:1]] transforms it into a profound symbol of spiritual expression made hollow and meaningless by the absence of charity. It serves as a timeless biblical warning against valuing outward displays over the internal substance of love.
TRV