διερμηνευτής

an interpreter

Definition

The Greek noun διερμηνευτής specifically refers to an interpreter, someone who translates or explains a message from one language to another. In the New Testament, it is used in the context of spiritual gifts, particularly the interpretation of tongues (glossolalia). The interpreter's role is to make an unintelligible utterance in an unknown tongue understandable to the congregation, as outlined by Paul in 1 Corinthians 14:28. This ensures that the church is edified through clear communication, turning a private spiritual experience into a public benefit.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians 14:28. It is used exclusively within Paul's detailed instructions on the orderly exercise of spiritual gifts in corporate worship. The context is the regulation of speaking in tongues: if no interpreter is present, the speaker must remain silent. This establishes the interpreter as a crucial, Spirit-enabled role for maintaining order and edification within the Corinthian church.

Etymology

Derived from the verb διερμηνεύω (diermēneuō, G1329), meaning 'to interpret thoroughly' or 'to explain.' This verb itself is a compound of διά (dia, 'through') and ἑρμηνεύω (hermēneuō, 'to interpret'), which is related to Hermes, the messenger god. The prefix διά intensifies the sense, implying a full or careful explanation that bridges a gap in understanding.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the Holy Spirit's work in granting both the gift of tongues and the complementary gift of interpretation (1 Corinthians 12:10). It underscores the biblical principle that spiritual gifts are for the common good and must be exercised in an orderly, intelligible manner to build up the church. Understanding this role enriches reading by clarifying that the purpose of miraculous gifts was not private ecstasy but clear communication of God's truth to the community.

In the Greco-Roman world, interpreters were essential for diplomacy, commerce, and religion, especially in multilingual regions like Corinth. The concept would have been familiar, but Paul adapts it for a unique spiritual function. Unlike secular interpreters who translated between known human languages, the early Christian interpreter explained divinely inspired utterances in unknown tongues, a practice specific to the apostolic-era church.

ἑρμηνευτής (hermēneutēs, G2059) — a more general term for an interpreter or translator, without the intensive prefix. μεθερμηνεύω (methermēneuō, G3177) — a verb meaning 'to translate' or 'to interpret,' often used in the Gospels to give the Aramaic or Hebrew equivalent of a word.

Word Details

Scripture References