The Greek word symphṓnēsis, represented by G4857, means accordance or concord. Derived from the word συμφωνέω, it signifies a state of agreement or harmony. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The sole use of G4857 is found in a pointed rhetorical question in 2 Corinthians 6:15: "And what concord hath Christ with Belial?". In this context, the word is used to highlight an absolute and complete lack of agreement between two opposing entities. The verse immediately follows with a parallel question, "or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?", reinforcing the central theme of fundamental incompatibility and the impossibility of shared ground between these two spiritual realities.
The concept of incompatibility is further defined by several words used in its immediate context:
- G955 Belíal: This term, of Hebrew origin, means worthlessness and is used as an epithet of Satan. Its placement in direct opposition to Christ G5547 in 2 Corinthians 6:15 establishes a stark and irreconcilable contrast.
- G571 ápistos: Defined as disbelieving or an infidel, this word describes the one who lacks Christian faith. The verse uses it to draw a clear line against the one who believes G4103, questioning what they could possibly share.
- G3310 merís: Meaning a portion or share, this word is used in the second half of the verse to question the possibility of any shared participation between a believer and an infidel, mirroring the impossibility of concord between Christ and Belial 2 Corinthians 6:15.
- G4314 prós: This preposition, meaning toward or pertaining to, is used in the phrase "with Belial" to frame the relationship being questioned. It asks what possible accord Christ could have moving toward or in relation to Belial.
The theological weight of G4857 is centered on the principle of necessary separation and spiritual distinction.
- Absolute Incompatibility: Its singular usage powerfully argues that there is no harmony, agreement, or concord possible between Christ G5547 and Belial G955. This establishes a foundational principle of an unbridgeable divide between divine holiness and worthlessness 2 Corinthians 6:15.
- Defining Allegiance: The word forces a clarification of spiritual identity. The question presented implies that just as Christ has no concord with Belial, a believer cannot have a shared part G3310 with an infidel G571. This is echoed in the surrounding context, which warns against being "unequally yoked together with unbelievers" 2 Corinthians 6:14.
- Rhetorical Challenge: The use of symphṓnēsis in a rhetorical question whose implied answer is "none" serves as a definitive statement on the nature of good and evil. It dismisses any notion of compromise or middle ground between the kingdom of God and the forces of darkness.
In summary, while symphṓnēsis G4857 appears only once, its impact is profound. It is not merely about a lack of opinion agreement but about an essential, ontological impossibility of concord. Its placement in 2 Corinthians 6:15 serves as a cornerstone for the biblical doctrine of separation, illustrating with ultimate clarity that there can be no shared harmony or purpose between Christ and Belial.
TRV