διαγνωρίζω

I tell abroad, make known

Definition

The verb διαγνωρίζω means to make something widely known, to tell abroad, or to declare publicly. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Luke 2:17, it describes the shepherds actively spreading the news about the birth of the Messiah after visiting the infant Jesus. The prefix διά intensifies the action, suggesting a thorough or widespread proclamation. While the core meaning is simply to make known, the context in Luke implies a proclamation of a significant, joyful message.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 2:17. It describes the immediate and enthusiastic action of the shepherds following their angelic visitation and encounter with Jesus in Bethlehem. The usage is narrative, capturing their response of proclaiming the news of Christ's birth to others. The context is one of witness and testimony following a divine revelation.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition διά (dia), meaning 'through' or 'throughout,' combined with the verb γνωρίζω (gnōrizō), meaning 'to make known' or 'to reveal.' Γνωρίζω itself comes from the root γινώσκω (ginōskō, 'to know'). Thus, διαγνωρίζω carries the intensified sense of making something known throughout an area or among people.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it captures the first human proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The shepherds' act of 'telling abroad' models the Christian response to encountering Jesus: sharing the good news with others. It highlights the theme of witness and the spread of divine revelation from a small, humble beginning to a wider audience, prefiguring the mission of the church.

In a culture reliant on oral communication, 'telling abroad' was the primary means of spreading news. The shepherds, as social outsiders, becoming the first heralds of the Messiah subverts expectations, as significant announcements were typically made by religious or political authorities. Their proclamation adds a layer of authenticity, as they were firsthand witnesses.

κηρύσσω (kēryssō, G2784) — to herald or preach, often with official authority; εὐαγγελίζω (euangelizō, G2097) — to announce good news, specifically the gospel; ἀπαγγέλλω (apangellō, G518) — to report or announce, a more general term for bringing news.

Word Details

Scripture References