δηλόω

I show, make clear, reveal

Definition

The verb δηλόω (dēloō) means to make something clear, evident, or known. It carries the sense of revealing information that was previously hidden, uncertain, or only partially understood. In the New Testament, it is used for making divine truths known, as when the Holy Spirit revealed the sufferings of Christ to the prophets (1 Peter 1:11), and for making practical information plain, as when Paul was informed (shown clearly) about divisions in Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:11). It also describes the act of disclosing the nature or quality of something through testing, such as fire revealing the quality of each person's work (1 Corinthians 3:13).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used seven times across various New Testament genres, including Pauline epistles, Hebrews, and Peter's letters. It appears in contexts of divine revelation (1 Peter 1:11, Hebrews 9:8), personal communication or reporting (1 Corinthians 1:11, Colossians 1:8), and the disclosure of inherent qualities or future realities (1 Corinthians 3:13, Hebrews 12:27, 2 Peter 1:14). Its usage shows a pattern of moving information from a state of obscurity to clarity, whether about spiritual truths, practical circumstances, or eschatological events.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective δῆλος (dēlos), meaning 'clear, evident, or manifest.' The root conveys the idea of being visible or plain to see. Cognates include the noun δήλωσις (dēlōsis), meaning 'a showing' or 'declaration.' The verb form inherently carries the sense of causing something to become δῆλος—to make it apparent or known.

Semantic Range

Δηλόω is theologically significant as it is often used for God's activity in revealing His plans and nature. In Hebrews 9:8, it shows the Holy Spirit revealing limitations in the old covenant, and in 1 Peter 1:11, it describes the Spirit of Christ revealing prophetic truths about the Messiah's sufferings and glories. This underscores the biblical theme of divine revelation—God making Himself and His purposes known to humanity. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the active work of God in disclosing truth, moving it from mystery to clarity for believers.

In the Greco-Roman world, the term was used in legal, literary, and everyday contexts to mean making something publicly known or proving a point. The biblical usage aligns with this but invests it with theological weight, applying it to the supreme revelation found in God's actions and communication through Christ and the Spirit.

ἀποκαλύπτω (apokalyptō, G601) — emphasizes uncovering or unveiling something completely hidden, often used for divine mysteries. φανερόω (phaneroō, G5319) — focuses on making something visible or manifest, often in a public or tangible sense. γνωρίζω (gnōrizō, G1107) — stresses making something known through communication or instruction.

Word Details

Scripture References