σημαίνω

I signify, indicate

Definition

The verb σημαίνω means to signify, indicate, or make known, often through a sign, signal, or symbolic action. In the New Testament, it primarily denotes communicating a meaning that is not immediately obvious, requiring interpretation. For example, in John 12:33 and John 18:32, it refers to Jesus 'indicating' the kind of death he would die. In Acts 11:28, the prophet Agabus 'indicated' by the Spirit that a famine was coming, showing a predictive sense. In Revelation 1:1, God 'signified' his revelation to John through angels and visions, emphasizing communication through symbols.

Biblical Usage

Σημαίνω is used six times in the New Testament, appearing in John, Acts, and Revelation. In John's Gospel (John 12:33, 18:32, 21:19), it is used to explain Jesus' predictions about his death and Peter's fate, often linked to figurative speech. In Acts (Acts 11:28, 25:27), it describes prophetic revelation and legal communication. In Revelation 1:1, it introduces the entire book as a divine communication 'signified' through symbolic visions, setting a tone for apocalyptic literature.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek noun σῆμα (sēma), meaning 'sign,' 'mark,' or 'token.' The verb literally means 'to give a sign' or 'to mark.' It is related to words like σημεῖον (sēmeion, G4592), meaning 'sign' or 'miracle,' highlighting its connection to meaningful indicators. The root idea is making something known through a perceptible signal.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores how God communicates truth, especially through indirect or symbolic means. In John's Gospel, it highlights Jesus' foreknowledge and the fulfillment of prophecy. In Revelation, it frames the entire book as a divinely 'signified' revelation, emphasizing that biblical prophecy often uses symbolic language requiring interpretation. Understanding σημαίνω enriches reading by reminding us to look for deeper meanings in scripture, particularly in predictive and apocalyptic passages.

In ancient Greek culture, σημαίνω was used in various contexts, such as giving military signals, issuing commands, or interpreting omens. The New Testament usage aligns with this broader sense of conveying meaning through signs, which would have been familiar to both Greek and Jewish audiences accustomed to symbolic prophecy and divine communication through portents.

δηλόω (dēloō, G1213) — to make plain or clear, often more direct than σημαίνω; μηνύω (mēnyō, G3377) — to disclose or report, typically about secret information; φανερόω (phaneroō, G5319) — to manifest or make visible, focusing on revelation rather than signification.

Word Details

Scripture References