διασαφέω
I make clear, explain
Definition
διασαφέω means to make something thoroughly clear, to explain in detail, or to declare plainly. It carries the sense of removing all ambiguity and providing a full account so that the matter is completely understood. In its single New Testament occurrence in Matthew 18:31, it describes the action of the fellow servants who 'explained in detail' to their master the wrong done by the unforgiving servant. This usage emphasizes a comprehensive and unambiguous report.
Biblical Usage
This verb is used only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 18:31, within the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. It describes the action of the servant's peers who, after witnessing his harsh treatment of a fellow servant, go and 'explain clearly' or 'report in detail' the situation to their master. The context is one of providing a full and unambiguous account to ensure proper judgment.
Etymology
Derived from the preposition διά (dia), meaning 'through' or 'thoroughly,' combined with the root of σαφής (saphēs), meaning 'clear' or 'distinct.' Thus, the compound verb literally means 'to make clear through and through' or 'to explain thoroughly.' It implies a process of clarification that leaves no room for doubt.
Semantic Range
While used only once, this word is theologically significant in highlighting the nature of testimony and accountability before God. In Matthew 18:31, the detailed explanation given to the master (a figure for God) underscores that God's judgment is based on a full and clear knowledge of our actions, particularly in matters of mercy and forgiveness. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of the parable by emphasizing the completeness and clarity with which our deeds are known.
In the Greco-Roman world, clear and detailed reporting was valued in legal, administrative, and personal contexts. The use of διασαφέω in Matthew 18:31 reflects this cultural expectation for a precise and unambiguous account when bringing a matter before an authority figure for judgment, ensuring the ruler had all necessary facts.
δηλόω (dēloō, G1213) — to make plain or manifest, often of showing or indicating. σαφηνίζω (saphēnizō, G5329) — to make clear or explain, with a strong focus on interpretation (e.g., of dreams, parables).
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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