### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **symphōnía**, represented by `{{G4858}}`, translates to **music**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in scripture. The term is derived from a word meaning "unison of sound," and it specifically denotes a concert of instruments or a harmonious note.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G4858}}` occurs in the parable of the Prodigal Son. As the elder son, who had remained faithful, returns from the field and nears his home, he encounters the sounds of a great celebration for his lost brother's return. The passage states that "he heard **musick** and dancing" [[Luke 15:25]], establishing the atmosphere of joy and festivity within the father's house.
### Related Words & Concepts
Two other words are directly associated with `{{G4858}}` in its only scriptural context:
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō**: This primary verb means **to hear**. It is the action by which the elder son perceives the celebration, connecting the external sound of the **musick** to his own awareness [[Luke 15:25]]. It is used elsewhere to convey not just physical hearing but also understanding or heeding a message [[James 1:19]].
* `{{G5525}}` **chorós**: This word for a round dance, or **dancing**, is paired directly with **musick** in the same phrase. It describes the physical expression of joy that accompanies the harmonious sound, completing the picture of the father's celebration [[Luke 15:25]].
### Theological Significance
Though rare, the theological weight of `{{G4858}}` is derived entirely from its powerful context.
* **Sound of Redemption:** The **musick** is not incidental; it is the audible evidence of the father's joy and the celebration of a son's restoration. It represents the happiness that fills the father's house when the lost is found [[Luke 15:25]].
* **An External Reality:** The celebration is first experienced by the elder son as something he **hears** `{{G191}}` from a distance. The **musick** signifies that the joy of reconciliation is a real, tangible event, not just a private feeling.
* **Holistic Celebration:** Paired with **dancing** `{{G5525}}`, the word illustrates that the joy of salvation is expressed completely, engaging both the sense of hearing with harmony and the body with movement.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4858}}` is a singular but impactful word in the New Testament. While it literally refers to a concert of instruments, its sole appearance in scripture imbues it with profound significance. It captures the sound of joyous celebration that erupts upon repentance and reconciliation, forever linking the concept of heavenly festivity with the welcoming harmony of a father's love.
TRV