### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun syngnṓmē (`{{G4774}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition syn (`{{G4862}}`, meaning "with" or "together") and the verb ginōskō (`{{G1097}}`, meaning "to know," "to perceive," or "to understand"). Etymologically, it signifies a "knowing together" or "shared understanding." This foundational concept develops into the semantic range of "concession," "permission," or "indulgence." It implies an allowance granted, not as a strict command or obligation, but as a yielding or agreement stemming from a mutual understanding or consideration of specific circumstances. Distinct from an authoritative command (epitagē) or an inherent right (exousia), syngnṓmē suggests a benevolent allowance or a yielding to a request or situation. The term thus denotes a departure from a general rule, granted out of understanding or leniency for a particular case.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term syngnṓmē (`{{G4774}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Paul's first letter to the Corinthians:
* [[1 Corinthians 7:6]]: "Now this I say by way of concession, not of command." (NIV)
In this passage, Paul is addressing the topic of marital relations and temporary abstinence within marriage. He has just advised in [[1 Corinthians 7:5]] that spouses should not deprive each other of sexual intimacy, except by mutual consent for a limited time dedicated to prayer, after which they should reunite to avoid temptation. Immediately following this counsel, in [[1 Corinthians 7:6]], Paul clarifies the nature of his preceding advice. He states that his instruction regarding temporary abstinence for prayer is given "by way of syngnṓmē" (κατὰ συγγνώμην) and "not of command" (οὐ κατ' ἐπιταγήν).
This distinction is profoundly significant. Paul is not issuing a divine imperative or a universal, binding law that all married couples *must* temporarily abstain for prayer. Rather, he is offering a practical allowance or permission, acknowledging that such a practice, if mutually agreed upon and temporary, can be beneficial for spiritual discipline. The use of syngnṓmē underscores that this is a flexible arrangement, granted out of pastoral understanding for the specific circumstances of the Corinthians, rather than an absolute, non-negotiable decree. It highlights Christian freedom within the bounds of wisdom and mutual consideration, contrasting sharply with an authoritative "command" (`{{G2003}}`, epitagē), which would imply an absolute obligation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding syngnṓmē (`{{G4774}}`) is enhanced by considering related Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **epitagē (`{{G2003}}`):** This word, meaning "command," "injunction," or "ordinance," stands in direct antithesis to syngnṓmē in [[1 Corinthians 7:6]]. While epitagē signifies a binding divine or authoritative order, syngnṓmē denotes a non-binding allowance or permission.
* **exousia (`{{G1849}}`):** Meaning "authority," "right," or "power," exousia represents a legitimate claim or inherent prerogative. While syngnṓmē is a *granted* permission, exousia is an *inherent* right. Paul often discusses his exousia as an apostle, but chooses syngnṓmē here to emphasize pastoral flexibility.
* **epitrepō (`{{G2076}}`):** This verb means "to permit" or "to allow." It is a verbal cognate in meaning, but syngnṓmē as a noun emphasizes the *nature* of the permission as a concession based on shared understanding and mutual consideration.
* **gnōsis (`{{G1108}}`) / ginōskō (`{{G1097}}`):** The root of syngnṓmē is ginōskō ("to know"). This etymological connection highlights that the concession is not arbitrary but rooted in a kind of "knowing together," implying wisdom, understanding, and mutual agreement between parties.
* **Christian Liberty:** The concept of syngnṓmē aligns with Paul's broader theology of Christian liberty, where believers are not bound by legalistic regulations but are guided by love, wisdom, and mutual consideration, especially in "adiaphora" (matters indifferent) that are not explicitly commanded or forbidden.
* **Marital Duty and Asceticism:** The context of syngnṓmē in [[1 Corinthians 7:6]] relates to the delicate balance between marital intimacy (a duty within marriage) and spiritual discipline (such as prayer and fasting). Paul navigates the tension between an overly ascetic view that might neglect marital obligations and a worldly view that might neglect spiritual pursuits, offering a balanced, concessionary approach.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of syngnṓmē (`{{G4774}}`) in [[1 Corinthians 7:6]] carries profound theological weight, particularly for understanding Pauline ethics and the nature of Christian living:
1. **Pastoral Wisdom and Flexibility:** Paul's use of syngnṓmē demonstrates his profound pastoral wisdom. He understands that not all situations demand rigid commands. Instead, sometimes a loving concession, based on understanding the specific needs and circumstances of believers, is more appropriate. This highlights that Christian ethics are not solely about strict adherence to rules, but also about discerning application in love and wisdom.
2. **Distinction Between Command and Counsel:** The explicit contrast between "concession" (syngnṓmē) and "command" (epitagē) is vital for interpreting Scripture. It teaches us that not everything an apostle or spiritual leader says is a divine, binding command. Some advice is given as wise counsel, permission, or a helpful suggestion, leaving room for individual discretion and conscience. This distinction is crucial for avoiding legalism and fostering genuine spiritual freedom.
3. **Marital Intimacy as a Norm:** By presenting temporary abstinence as a "concession" and not a "command," Paul implicitly affirms the regular practice of sexual intimacy within marriage as the norm. Abstinence is presented as the exception, permissible only for specific, mutually agreed-upon spiritual purposes, and even then, it should be temporary to prevent temptation. This underscores the importance of the marital bond and its physical expression within God's design.
4. **Freedom and Responsibility:** The concept of syngnṓmē grants freedom but also implies responsibility. While Paul permits temporary abstinence, he also warns against the dangers of prolonged deprivation, which could lead to temptation from Satan. Christian liberty is not license but is to be exercised with wisdom, love, and a view towards the spiritual well-being of oneself and one's spouse.
5. **Grace in Guidance:** The very idea of a "concession" speaks to the gracious nature of God's interaction with humanity. Just as God often deals with us in grace, making allowances for human frailty and circumstance, so too Paul, as an instrument of God's wisdom, offers guidance that is not always absolute but often accommodating and understanding.
### Summary
The Greek word syngnṓmē (`{{G4774}}`) is a significant term, though it appears only once in the New Testament. Derived from syn ("with") and ginōskō ("to know"), its core meaning is "fellow knowledge," which evolves into "concession" or "permission." In its sole biblical occurrence in [[1 Corinthians 7:6]], Paul uses syngnṓmē to clarify that his advice regarding temporary marital abstinence for prayer is a gracious allowance, not a binding command. This crucial distinction highlights Paul's pastoral wisdom and the flexibility inherent in Christian ethics. It underscores the difference between divine imperatives and wise, accommodating counsel, affirming marital intimacy as the norm while permitting temporary, consensual exceptions for spiritual focus. Syngnṓmē thus reflects a nuanced approach to spiritual guidance, valuing both freedom and responsibility within the framework of God's loving design.
TRV