Lexical Summary aphónos: Mute, silent, without voice Original Word: ἄφωνος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance speechless, mute, silentFrom a (as a negative particle) and phone; voiceless, i.e. Mute (by nature or choice); figuratively, unmeaning -- dumb, without signification. see GREEK a see GREEK phone NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom alpha (as a neg. prefix) and phóné Definition without voice, i.e. speechless NASB Translation mute (2), silent (1), without meaning (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 880: ἄφωνοςἄφωνος, ἁφῶν (φωνή), voiceless, dumb; without the faculty of speech; used of idols, 1 Corinthians 12:2 (cf. Psalm 115:5 Topical Lexicon Definition and NuanceThe adjective ἄφωνος describes that which is without voice, sound, or articulate expression. In the New Testament its range moves from literal muteness to figurative uselessness, addressing issues of revelation, authority, and the contrast between the living God and lifeless substitutes. Occurrences in the New Testament “You know that when you were pagans, you were influenced and led astray to mute idols.” “Undoubtedly, there are many kinds of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning.” “But he received a rebuke for his own wrongdoing from a mute donkey speaking with a human voice, restrained the madness of the prophet.” • Acts 8:32 (quoting Isaiah 53:7) “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so He did not open His mouth.” Old Testament and Jewish Background The Septuagint frequently employs ἄφωνος for idols that “have mouths, but cannot speak” (for example Psalm 115:5). Isaiah 53:7, cited in Acts 8:32, presents the suffering Servant’s purposeful silence. Rabbinic tradition also comments on Balaam’s donkey as an example of God’s sovereignty over speech. Theological Themes Idolatry Exposed Paul’s reference to “mute idols” (1 Corinthians 12:2) underlines their impotence. In a world enthralled by temple statues, the inability to speak is proof that they are no gods at all. The true God not only speaks but also acts, revealing Himself through prophets, Scripture, and supremely in His Son. Revelation and Meaning 1 Corinthians 14:10 extends the idea: every human language has meaning; none is ἄφωνος. If even the tongues of men carry significance, how much more the utterances of God. Paul marshals this fact to regulate the gift of tongues so that church speech remains intelligible and edifying. Christ’s Silent Submission Acts 8:32 highlights the Messiah’s voluntary silence. His refusal to answer His accusers fulfills Isaiah 53:7, portraying meekness, innocence, and trust in the Father. The word ἄφωνος here is not weakness but controlled strength, fulfilling redemptive purpose. Divine Sovereignty over Speech 2 Peter 2:16 presents the paradox of a “mute donkey” that suddenly speaks, rebuking Balaam. The account affirms that God can put words in any mouth while at times withholding them from proud prophets. Speech and silence alike serve His governance. Historical Context Greco-Roman religious life teemed with cult images acclaimed for alleged oracles. By calling them “mute,” Scripture exposes their fraud. Philosophers such as Epictetus mocked dumb idols, but Scripture does more: it points to the living, speaking God who engages His people in covenant. Implications for Christian Ministry 1. Proclamation Followers of Christ are called to break silence where truth is at stake. Unlike idols, believers have received the Spirit so that they might “declare the praises of Him” (1 Peter 2:9). 2. Discernment Paul’s argument in 1 Corinthians 14:10–11 instructs leaders to ensure that worship remains intelligible. Any practice that renders the gathering ἄφωνος—void of clear meaning—must be reformed. 3. Submission Acts 8:32 reminds disciples that there is a time to speak and a time to be silent. Christ’s model informs pastoral care amid persecution or false accusation. 4. Humility The talking donkey of 2 Peter 2:16 cautions teachers: if God can use a beast to correct error, none should presume upon office or eloquence. Doctrinal Insights • God is the ultimate Communicator; idols are speechless. Practical Applications • Evaluate every object of trust: does it truly speak God’s Word, or is it ἄφωνος? The word ἄφωνος thus serves as a subtle yet potent thread uniting the folly of idolatry, the discipline of worship, the mystery of the cross, and the sovereignty of God over all speech. Forms and Transliterations αφωνα άφωνα ἄφωνα αφωνον άφωνον ἄφωνον αφωνος άφωνος ἄφωνος aphona aphōna áphona áphōna aphonon aphōnon áphonon áphōnon aphonos aphōnos áphonos áphōnosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Acts 8:32 Adj-NMSGRK: κείραντος αὐτὸν ἄφωνος οὕτως οὐκ NAS: ITS SHEARER IS SILENT, SO KJV: like a lamb dumb before his INT: shears him [is] mute thus not 1 Corinthians 12:2 Adj-ANP 1 Corinthians 14:10 Adj-NNS 2 Peter 2:16 Adj-NNS Strong's Greek 880 |
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