from a derivative of γινώσκω; to make known; subjectively, to know:--certify, declare, make known, give to understand, do to wit, wot.
Transliteration:gnōrízō
Pronunciation:gno-rid'-zo
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb γνωρίζω (gnōrízō, `{{G1107}}`) fundamentally means "to make known," "to declare," or "to reveal." It is derived from a base related to γινώσκω (ginōskō, `{{G1097}}`), which signifies "to know" in an experiential, intimate sense. Therefore, γνωρίζω is not merely about conveying information, but about causing someone to come into a deeper, often personal, understanding or awareness of something previously unknown or hidden. Its primary use is transitive, denoting the action of bringing something to light or into the sphere of knowledge for another. While its base definition also includes a subjective sense "to know," this is far less common in biblical usage compared to its causative function of "making known." The semantic range thus encompasses declaration, revelation, announcement, and the act of bringing to understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term γνωρίζω appears frequently in the New Testament, often in contexts of divine revelation and the communication of truth.
* **Divine Revelation:** A prominent use is in describing God's active disclosure of Himself, His will, or His mysteries. In Ephesians, Paul repeatedly uses γνωρίζω to speak of God making known the "mystery of His will" ([[Ephesians 1:9]]) and the "mystery of Christ" ([[Ephesians 3:3-5]]) to His apostles and prophets. This highlights God's initiative in revealing truths previously hidden, particularly concerning the inclusion of Gentiles in the body of Christ. Similarly, in Colossians, God desires to γνωρίζω "the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory" ([[Colossians 1:27]]). Here, the emphasis is on the profound and glorious nature of the revealed truth.
* **Proclamation and Declaration:** The word also describes the act of proclaiming or declaring something. Paul states his desire for the Philippians to know his circumstances, saying, "I want you to γνωρίζω that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel" ([[Philippians 1:12]]). This is a clear declaration of fact. In Acts, Peter declares, "You have γνωρίζω to me the paths of life" ([[Acts 2:28]]), referring to God's revelation.
* **Interpersonal Communication:** In a more general sense, γνωρίζω can refer to making one's requests or needs known. Paul exhorts believers, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" ([[Philippians 4:6]]). Here, γνωρίζω implies open and direct communication of one's desires to God.
* **Manifestation of Divine Attributes:** In Romans, Paul speaks of God's desire to γνωρίζω His wrath and His power, as well as the "riches of His glory" upon vessels of mercy ([[Romans 9:22-23]]). This shows God's sovereign action in displaying His inherent attributes for all to perceive.
* **Jesus' Revelation of the Father:** Jesus Himself uses γνωρίζω in His high priestly prayer, stating, "I have γνωρίζω your name to them, and will γνωρίζω it, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them" ([[John 17:26]]). This signifies His unique role in revealing the very character and nature of God the Father to humanity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of γνωρίζω is enriched by its relationship to other Greek terms and theological concepts:
* **γινώσκω (ginōskō, `{{G1097}}`):** As its root, γινώσκω means "to know" experientially. γνωρίζω is the causative form, meaning "to cause to know" or "to make known." This connection highlights that the "making known" is often intended to lead to a deeper, personal understanding, not just intellectual assent.
* **ἀποκαλύπτω (apokalyptō, `{{G601}}`):** Meaning "to unveil" or "to reveal," this word is often used synonymously with γνωρίζω in contexts of divine revelation. While ἀποκαλύπτω emphasizes the removal of a covering, γνωρίζω focuses on the act of bringing something into the realm of knowledge or awareness. Both describe God's self-disclosure.
* **φανερόω (phaneroō, `{{G5319}}`):** Meaning "to make visible," "to manifest," or "to appear," this term also shares semantic overlap, particularly when the act of making known involves a public display or manifestation.
* **διδάσκω (didaskō, `{{G1321}}`):** "To teach." While γνωρίζω can be a component of teaching, it is broader, encompassing any act of making something known, not just formal instruction.
* **Concepts:** The word γνωρίζω is intrinsically linked to the theological concepts of revelation, communication, manifestation, understanding, and divine initiative. It underscores the active role of God in making Himself and His purposes comprehensible to humanity.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of γνωρίζω is profound, particularly in its application to God's interaction with humanity:
* **God as Revealer:** The frequent use of γνωρίζω to describe God's actions establishes Him as the ultimate Revealer. He does not remain hidden but actively makes Himself, His will, and His redemptive plan known to His creation. This divine initiative is foundational to biblical theology.
* **The Mystery Revealed in Christ:** A central theme where γνωρίζω appears is the revelation of the "mystery" of God's will, which is ultimately fulfilled and made clear in Jesus Christ. The inclusion of Gentiles, the unity of believers, and the indwelling of Christ are all aspects of this previously hidden truth that God has now γνωρίζω through the gospel.
* **The Person of Jesus as Revelation:** Jesus Christ is the supreme γνωρίζω of the Father. Through His life, teachings, death, and resurrection, the character, love, and purposes of God are fully brought to light ([[John 17:26]]).
* **The Holy Spirit's Role in Illumination:** While not always explicitly stated with γνωρίζω, the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in enabling believers to truly know and understand the truths God has made known. The Spirit illuminates the mind and heart to grasp the revealed mysteries.
* **Human Responsibility in Proclamation:** Believers are called to participate in this process of making known. As recipients of God's revelation, they are entrusted with the task of γνωρίζω the gospel to others, declaring the good news of salvation.
* **Intimacy in Prayer:** The use of γνωρίζω in the context of prayer ([[Philippians 4:6]]) highlights the intimate and open communication available to believers, where they can make their needs and desires known to a God who listens and understands.
### Summary
The Greek word γνωρίζω (gnōrízō, `{{G1107}}`) signifies "to make known," "to declare," or "to reveal." Rooted in the concept of experiential knowledge (γινώσκω, `{{G1097}}`), it denotes the active process of bringing something into the sphere of understanding for another. Its primary theological import lies in describing God's sovereign act of self-disclosure, particularly in making known His divine will, His mysteries, and His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. It also encompasses human declaration and communication, including the believer's responsibility to proclaim the gospel and to present requests to God in prayer. γνωρίζω thus underscores the biblical truth that God is not a hidden deity, but one who actively reveals Himself, inviting humanity into a deeper knowledge and relationship with Him.
TRV