### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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