### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **symphōnéō**, represented by `{{G4856}}`, means to be harmonious or to accord. It appears 7 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. Figuratively, its meaning extends to the act of concurring with others or stipulating the terms of a compact.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4856}}` is applied in several distinct ways. It establishes the power of unified prayer, where if two believers shall **agree** on earth about anything they **ask**, it will be done for them [[Matthew 18:19]]. The word also defines a formal contract, as when a landowner **agreed** with labourers for a penny a day [[Matthew 20:2]]. He later holds a worker to this compact, asking, "didst not thou **agree** with me for a penny?" [[Matthew 20:13]]. Conversely, it can describe a sinful conspiracy, as when Peter confronts Sapphira for having **agreed together** with her husband to **tempt** the Spirit of the Lord [[Acts 5:9]]. It is also used to illustrate suitability, such as a new piece of cloth that **agreeth** not with an old garment [[Luke 5:36]], and to show how the words of the prophets **agree** with apostolic teaching [[Acts 15:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G4856}}` is used:
* `{{G154}}` **aitéō** (to ask): This word is directly tied to the purpose of agreement in prayer. What believers **agree** upon is what they then **ask** the Father to perform [[Matthew 18:19]].
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to become, come into being): This highlights the result of harmonious prayer. When believers **agree** and ask, it is promised that their request shall **be done** for them [[Matthew 18:19]].
* `{{G3985}}` **peirázō** (to test, tempt): This term reveals the negative potential of agreement. Ananias and Sapphira **agreed together** for the specific purpose of an evil act: to **tempt** the Spirit of the Lord [[Acts 5:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4856}}` is significant, demonstrating that the nature and object of an agreement are critically important.
* **Agreement in Prayer:** The word is foundational to the principle of unified prayer. It shows that when believers are in harmony on a matter to **ask** for, their request is affirmed by the Father [[Matthew 18:19]].
* **Agreement in Compact:** It underscores the integrity of a binding promise. In the parable of the labourers, the agreement for a wage is presented as a firm contract, with the landowner stating, "I do thee no **wrong** `{{G91}}`" by adhering to the terms [[Matthew 20:13]].
* **Agreement in Deception:** The word serves as a solemn warning that unity is not inherently righteous. An agreement can be for a sinful purpose, such as when Ananias and Sapphira **agreed together** to **tempt** the Spirit, showing that unity in deceit leads to judgment [[Acts 5:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4856}}` is a versatile term that goes far beyond simple assent. It encompasses the spiritual power of unified prayer, the binding nature of a contract, the peril of a sinful conspiracy, and the consistency between parts of scripture. The word ultimately illustrates that the value and outcome of an agreement are determined entirely by its purpose and whether it aligns with divine truth.
TRV