### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phthóngos**, represented by `{{G5353}}`, refers to an utterance or a musical note. Its base definition is "utterance, i.e. a musical note (vocal or instrumental):--sound." It is a specific term for sound that appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its focused application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5353}}` carries two distinct meanings. In [[1 Corinthians 14:7]], it refers to the literal **sounds** of inanimate instruments like a pipe or harp, emphasizing that without a clear distinction between the notes, the music is unintelligible. In [[Romans 10:18]], the word takes on a metaphorical sense, where the apostles' message is described as a **sound** that "went into all the earth," paired with their "words" that reached "the ends of the world."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5353}}` by providing a broader context for sound and communication:
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ** (noise, sound, voice): This is a more general term for sound or voice. In [[1 Corinthians 14:7]], inanimate objects give **sound** `{{G5456}}`, which must be distinguished by their **sounds** `{{G5353}}`. It is often used for a divine or human voice, as in the "great **voice** out of heaven" [[Revelation 21:3]].
* `{{G4487}}` **rhēma** (saying, word): This term refers to an utterance or spoken word. It is used alongside `{{G5353}}` in [[Romans 10:18]], where the "sound" is connected to their **words**. This shows a link between the broadcast of a sound and the content of the message being delivered.
* `{{G832}}` **auléō** (to play the flute): This verb describes the action that produces a musical sound. In [[1 Corinthians 14:7]], it is used to ask how anyone will know what is **piped** if the sounds `{{G5353}}` are not distinct, directly connecting the action to the need for clarity in the resulting note.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G5353}}` lies in its emphasis on clarity and reach.
* **Intelligible Communication:** The use of `{{G5353}}` in [[1 Corinthians 14:7]] establishes a principle that sound, particularly in music, must be distinct and ordered to have meaning. An unclear sound is simply noise, which cannot be understood.
* **Universal Proclamation:** [[Romans 10:18]] uses `{{G5353}}` to illustrate the expansive reach of the apostolic message. The "sound" of their words is not a vague noise but a proclamation that has traveled to the ends of the earth, implying a clear and far-reaching announcement.
* **Musical and Verbal Sound:** The word bridges the gap between a literal musical note and the metaphorical sound of a proclaimed message. It highlights that both require distinction to be effective, whether for creating a recognizable melody or for communicating a divine truth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5353}}` is more than just a generic word for sound. It specifically denotes a clear, distinct sound, whether a single musical note from an instrument or the pervasive sound of a message being declared. Its usage underscores the biblical value of intelligible communication and the universal scope of proclaimed truth.
TRV