### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **τοὐναντίον** (tounantíon), represented by `{{G5121}}`, is a term used to mean **on the contrary** or **contrariwise**. Though it appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, its function is significant, signaling a deliberate and often unexpected turn from one course of action or state of being to its opposite.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5121}}` marks a critical pivot in behavior or perception. In [[1 Peter 3:9]], believers are commanded not to return evil for evil, but **contrariwise**, to offer a **blessing** `{{G2129}}`. In [[2 Corinthians 2:7]], instead of allowing a person to be consumed by sorrow, the church is instructed that **contrariwise**, they ought to **forgive** `{{G5483}}` and **comfort** `{{G3870}}` him. Similarly, in [[Galatians 2:7]], the apostles in Jerusalem did not oppose Paul's mission; **contrariwise**, they recognized that the **gospel** `{{G2098}}` to the **uncircumcision** `{{G203}}` had been committed to him, just as the gospel to the **circumcision** `{{G4061}}` was to **Peter** `{{G4074}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the concept of contrast and opposition introduced by `{{G5121}}`:
* `{{G235}}` **allá** (but): Defined as "contrariwise (in many relations)," this word frequently introduces a contrasting point. It is used in the same verse as `{{G5121}}` to set up the contrast in [[Galatians 2:7]] and is also used to distinguish between calling the righteous and **but** sinners to repentance [[Matthew 9:13]].
* `{{G2556}}` **kakós** (evil): This word means "worthless" or "injurious" and represents the very thing believers are called to respond to differently. The instruction in [[1 Peter 3:9]] is to not return **evil** for **evil**, but to do the contrary.
* `{{G2129}}` **eulogía** (blessing): Meaning "fine speaking" or "benediction," this is the specific "contrary" action commanded in response to hostility. Instead of rendering railing for railing, believers are called to offer a **blessing** [[1 Peter 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5121}}` is centered on the call for a supernatural response that runs contrary to natural human reactions.
* **A Call to Active Blessing:** The term commands a reversal of the natural law of retaliation. Instead of responding to evil with more **evil** `{{G2556}}`, the believer is called to a higher standard of actively offering a **blessing**, knowing this is central to their calling to **inherit** `{{G2816}}` a blessing themselves [[1 Peter 3:9]].
* **The Primacy of Restoration:** In matters of church discipline, `{{G5121}}` directs the community toward grace. The contrary action to leaving someone in excessive **sorrow** `{{G3077}}` is to **forgive** `{{G5483}}` and **comfort** `{{G3870}}`, preventing them from being "swallowed up" and prioritizing their restoration [[2 Corinthians 2:7]].
* **Unity in Diverse Missions:** The word underscores the Spirit's unified work through different vessels. What might have been seen as competing missions to the circumcised and uncircumcised was, **on the contrary**, recognized as two fronts of the same divine commission, affirming the validity of both Paul's and Peter's work [[Galatians 2:7]].
### Summary
In summary, **tounantíon** `{{G5121}}` is a pivotal term that, while rare, encapsulates a core tenet of Christian ethics. It instructs believers to actively choose a response that is opposite to worldly or fleshly instincts. Whether in personal interactions, church discipline, or apostolic mission, the word signals a command to act with grace, forgiveness, and unity, demonstrating a life transformed by the gospel.
TRV