### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb ὁμοῦ (homoû), Strong's `{{G3674}}`, derives from the concept of "the same" (akin to ὁμός). As an adverb, its core meaning encompasses the idea of being "at the same place" or "at the same time." This dual application allows it to describe both spatial proximity and temporal simultaneity. Its semantic range thus extends to notions of companionship, collective action, assembly, and unity. While often synonymous with ἅμα `{{G260}}` (hama), ὁμοῦ can subtly emphasize the inherent oneness or shared identity of the group or action, stemming from its root suggesting "sameness."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
ὁμοῦ appears a limited number of times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospel of John and the book of Acts, consistently conveying the sense of "together."
* In [[John 4:36]], Jesus speaks of the sower and reaper rejoicing ὁμοῦ, "together." Here, the word signifies a unity of purpose and shared joy in the spiritual harvest, highlighting a temporal and teleological togetherness.
* [[John 20:4]] describes Peter and the beloved disciple running ὁμοῦ to the tomb, indicating their simultaneous and shared action. This is a straightforward spatial and temporal description of their movement.
* [[John 21:2]] lists several disciples who were ὁμοῦ "together" by the Sea of Tiberias, denoting their physical presence in the same location, a gathering of the core group.
* Following this, [[John 21:3]] implies their continued togetherness as they embark on a fishing trip, reinforcing the idea of shared activity and companionship.
* A particularly significant use is found in [[Acts 2:44]], where it states that "all who believed were ὁμοῦ and had all things in common." This verse is foundational for understanding the early Christian community, emphasizing not merely physical proximity but a profound communal unity that extended to their possessions and way of life. It speaks to the *koinonia* (fellowship) that characterized the nascent church.
* Conversely, [[Acts 4:26]] uses ὁμοῦ to describe the kings of the earth and rulers gathering "together" against the Lord and His Anointed. This demonstrates that while ὁμοῦ denotes unity, the nature of that unity (whether for good or ill) is determined by its object and purpose. Here, it describes a unified opposition to divine will.
### Related Words & Concepts
ὁμοῦ is closely related to other Greek words expressing togetherness or unity:
* **ἅμα `{{G260}}` (hama):** Also meaning "together" or "at the same time." While often interchangeable with ὁμοῦ, ἅμα might more broadly indicate simultaneity, whereas ὁμοῦ can carry a stronger nuance of shared identity or collective presence.
* **συνάγω `{{G4863}}` (synago):** "to gather together, assemble." This verb describes the action that results in people being ὁμοῦ.
* **συνέρχομαι `{{G4905}}` (synerchomai):** "to come together, assemble." Similar to συνάγω, this verb highlights the process of coming into a state of being ὁμοῦ.
* **κοινωνία `{{G2842}}` (koinonia):** "fellowship, sharing, community." The state of being ὁμοῦ often facilitates or is a manifestation of *koinonia*, particularly in the context of the early church ([[Acts 2:44]]).
Antonymic concepts include separation, dispersion, and isolation, often expressed by words like χωρίς `{{G5565}}` (choris - "apart from") or διασκορπίζω `{{G1287}}` (diaskorpizo - "to scatter").
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ὁμοῦ lies primarily in its portrayal of unity and community within the biblical narrative. In the Gospels, it underscores the shared experience and intimate fellowship of the disciples with Jesus and with one another. This "being together" was foundational to their learning, mission, and the development of their faith.
In Acts, ὁμοῦ becomes a key descriptor of the early Christian church. The declaration that believers were ὁμοῦ and shared all things ([[Acts 2:44]]) is a powerful theological statement about the nature of the Spirit-filled community. It suggests that their unity was not merely incidental but a divinely orchestrated manifestation of their new identity in Christ, characterized by radical generosity and mutual support. This corporate existence, facilitated by their physical togetherness, was a tangible expression of their spiritual unity.
Furthermore, the word's use in [[Acts 4:26]] serves as a stark reminder that unity itself is not inherently virtuous. Malicious or rebellious unity, such as that seen in opposition to God, highlights the moral neutrality of mere togetherness; its ethical and theological value is determined by its purpose and object. Nevertheless, the predominant use of ὁμοῦ in positive contexts within the early church narrative emphasizes the divine valuing of fellowship, shared life, and corporate witness among believers. It points towards the eschatological hope of the gathered people of God.
### Summary
ὁμοῦ (homoû), `{{G3674}}`, is a Greek adverb meaning "together," signifying unity in either space or time. Its usage in the New Testament consistently highlights the physical presence and shared actions of individuals. Theologically, ὁμοῦ is particularly significant in describing the communal life of the early church, emphasizing their radical fellowship (koinonia) and shared resources as a manifestation of their unity in the Holy Spirit ([[Acts 2:44]]). While it can also denote unity in opposition to God, its primary biblical witness underscores the importance of corporate existence, shared experience, and the blessedness of believers being "together" in Christ.
TRV