### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **áidō**, represented by `{{G103}}`, is a primary verb with the base definition **to sing**. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses, highlighting its specific use in contexts of worship and praise. While not frequent, its occurrences are significant, describing both earthly instruction for believers and celestial acts of worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical text, `{{G103}}` is used to command a specific form of worship. Believers are instructed to engage in "**singing** with grace in your hearts to the Lord" [[Colossians 3:16]] and "**singing** and making melody in your heart to the Lord" [[Ephesians 5:19]]. The verb also features prominently in the book of Revelation to describe heavenly praise. Redeemed beings in heaven "**sung** a new song" to the Lamb for his redemptive work [[Revelation 5:9]], and later they "**sing** the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb" [[Revelation 15:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the nature of biblical song and worship:
* `{{G5603}}` **ōidḗ** (song): This word, which is derived from **áidō**, is a general term for any words sung. It is often the direct object of the verb "to sing," as seen in the "new **song**" sung in heaven [[Revelation 5:9]] and "the **song** of the Lamb" [[Revelation 15:3]].
* `{{G5568}}` **psalmós** (psalm): Described as a sacred ode, often accompanied by an instrument, this word specifies a particular type of song. It is used alongside **áidō** when believers are told to teach one another in **psalms** and hymns and spiritual songs [[Colossians 3:16]].
* `{{G5215}}` **hýmnos** (hymn): Defined as a religious ode, this term is used in parallel with psalms and songs as a vehicle for worship and mutual admonishment among believers [[Ephesians 5:19]].
* `{{G5567}}` **psállō** (make melody, sing psalms): This verb, which involves playing a stringed instrument, is paired directly with **áidō** to create a fuller expression of worship: "**singing** and **making melody** in your heart to the Lord" [[Ephesians 5:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G103}}` is demonstrated in its specific applications.
* **Heartfelt Worship:** The act of singing is not merely an external performance but an internal expression of devotion. It is something to be done "with grace in your hearts" [[Colossians 3:16]] and "in your heart to the Lord" [[Ephesians 5:19]].
* **Celestial Praise:** In Revelation, singing is the primary activity of those in heaven. The redeemed are shown **singing** before the throne in response to God's salvation [[Revelation 14:3]].
* **A Response to Redemption:** The content of the songs is directly tied to God's redemptive acts. Heavenly beings **sing** a new song because the Lamb was slain and has "redeemed us to God by thy blood" [[Revelation 5:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G103}}` is a focused verb that captures the essential act of worshipful singing. While its usage is limited, it connects the instruction for the church on earth with the reality of praise in heaven. It underscores that singing is a central, heartfelt response to the character and redemptive work of God, finding its ultimate fulfillment in the eternal songs of the redeemed.
TRV