The Greek word psithyrismós, represented by G5587, refers to whispering, specifically in the sense of secret detraction or slander. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The term's meaning is derived from the act of whispering but carries the heavy implication of malicious and divisive speech conducted in secret.
The sole use of G5587 is found in 2 Corinthians 12:20. In this verse, the apostle Paul expresses his fear that upon visiting the Corinthian church, he might find them in a state of spiritual disarray. Whisperings are listed among a series of vices that destroy church unity, including debates G2054, envyings G2205, wraths G2372, strifes G2052, backbitings G2636, swellings G5450, and tumults G181. The context firmly establishes whisperings as a sinful behavior that is contrary to the life a believer should lead.
Several related words from its context help illuminate the destructive nature of G5587:
- G2636 katalalía (backbiting, evil speaking): This word appears directly alongside whisperings and describes open defamation, whereas psithyrismós is secret. Believers are commanded to lay aside all evil speakings 1 Peter 2:1.
- G2054 éris (a quarrel, i.e. wrangling): Often translated as "debates" or "strife," this is the open conflict that can be fueled by secret whisperings. It is listed as a behavior to be avoided by those who walk honestly Romans 13:13.
- G2205 zēlos (envy, jealousy): Listed as "envyings" in the same passage, this is a common motive for slanderous whispering. Where envying and strife are present, there is confusion and every evil work James 3:16.
- G181 akatastasía (instability, i.e. disorder): This word for "tumults" or "confusion" represents the ultimate outcome of behaviors like whispering and strife. It stands in direct opposition to the nature of God, who is not the author of confusion 1 Corinthians 14:33.
The theological weight of G5587 lies in its clear identification as a sin that corrupts community from within.
- Threat to Unity: Its inclusion in the list in 2 Corinthians 12:20 demonstrates that secret slander is a grave threat to the health and peace of the church, fostering an environment of division.
- Symptom of Carnality: The presence of whisperings and associated behaviors like "envying" and "strife" are identified as evidence of being carnal and walking as men, not as spiritual believers 1 Corinthians 3:3.
- A Work of Darkness: The act of whispering implies secrecy and a desire to avoid the light, contrasting with the call for believers to walk honestly as in the day Romans 13:13. It is a form of evil speaking that must be put away Ephesians 4:31.
In summary, G5587 psithyrismós is not a neutral term for quiet speech. It is a potent word that, in its single biblical use, denotes the destructive and sinful act of secret slander. It serves as a stark warning against the power of hidden words to create envy, strife, and ultimately, tumult within the body of Christ, highlighting the importance of transparent and edifying speech.
TRV