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.
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.
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.
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.
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