Lexical Summary phthoggos: Sound, voice, tone Original Word: φθόγγος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance sound. From phtheggomai; utterance, i.e. A musical note (vocal or instrumental) -- sound. see GREEK phtheggomai NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom phtheggomai Definition a sound NASB Translation tones (1), voice (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 5353: φθόγγοςφθόγγος, φθογγου, ὁ (φθέγγομαι, which see), a musical sound, whether vocal or instrumental (Wis. 19:17): 1 Corinthians 14:7; Romans 10:18, in this latter passive, Paul transfers what is said in Psalm 18:5 Topical Lexicon Definition and Scope of the Term Phthongos denotes an audible, articulated sound—whether musical or verbal—capable of conveying distinct meaning. The term is concerned less with mere noise and more with intelligible tone that communicates. Occurrences in the New Testament Romans 10:18 cites Psalm 19:4, declaring, “Their voice has gone out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.” Paul employs phthongos to underscore the universal reach of God’s revelatory message. 1 Corinthians 14:7 uses the plural form to illustrate that even “lifeless instruments, such as the flute or harp,” must produce “distinct tones” for listeners to recognize the melody; otherwise, the music lacks purpose. Here Paul applies the term pastorally, stressing that speech in the church must be intelligible for the edification of believers. Old Testament Background and Intertextual Links Psalm 19 celebrates creation’s testimony: “The heavens declare the glory of God…; there is no speech or language where their voice is not heard” (Psalm 19:1, 3-4). Paul’s quotation in Romans 10 aligns the “voice” of creation with the proclamation of the gospel, demonstrating Scripture’s unity in affirming that God makes Himself known to all peoples. Theological Significance 1. General Revelation: Phthongos in Romans 10:18 bridges the witness of creation with the verbal preaching of Christ, affirming both as channels through which God’s truth resounds. Practical and Ministry Applications • Preaching and Teaching: Ministers should strive for clarity and precision, ensuring that every “tone” of doctrine is distinct and comprehensible. Historical Notes on Usage in Greek Culture Classical writers used phthongos for the clear notes of instruments and the articulate tones of orators. This background enhances Paul’s illustrations: a culture attuned to the discipline of music and rhetoric readily grasped his call for distinct, meaningful expression in Christian gatherings. Related Concepts in Scripture • Phonē (“voice”)—emphasizes verbal proclamation (John 10:27). Summary Phthongos embodies the idea that God’s truth is meant to be heard clearly—whether through creation, Scripture, or the gathered church—calling all people to understanding, worship, and obedience. Forms and Transliterations φθογγοις φθόγγοις φθογγος φθόγγος phthongois phthóngois phthongos phthóngosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Romans 10:18 N-NMSGRK: ἐξῆλθεν ὁ φθόγγος αὐτῶν καὶ NAS: have they? Indeed they have; THEIR VOICE HAS GONE KJV: Yes verily, their sound went into INT: went out the voice of them and 1 Corinthians 14:7 N-DMP Strong's Greek 5353 |
    |