### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun δεῖγμα (deîgma, `{{G1164}}`) is derived from the base of the verb δεικνύω (deiknyo, `{{G1166}}`), which means "to show, point out, exhibit, make known, demonstrate." Consequently, δεῖγμα fundamentally refers to "a thing shown," "an exhibition," "a specimen," or "a sample." Its core semantic range encompasses anything presented for observation, serving as a clear illustration or proof. In the New Testament, its usage is narrowed to denote an "example" that serves as a visible, undeniable demonstration, specifically one that functions as a warning or object lesson concerning divine judgment. It is not merely any example, but one set forth as a stark and undeniable proof of consequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term δεῖγμα appears twice in the New Testament, both times in contexts concerning God's judgment and serving as a cautionary example for future generations.
1. **[[Jude 1:7]]**: "just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an δεῖγμα of eternal fire suffering the punishment." Here, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is presented as a clear, visible "example" or "specimen" of divine retribution. The cities' fate is a demonstrative proof (δεῖγμα) of the eternal punishment awaiting those who engage in similar ungodliness and sexual perversion. It is a historical event made into a perpetual warning.
2. **[[2 Peter 2:6]]**: "and if he condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction by reducing them to ashes, making them an δεῖγμα to those who would thereafter live ungodly lives." This verse closely parallels Jude's usage, reinforcing the idea that God's past judgment on these cities serves as a concrete "example" or "pattern" for all subsequent generations who might contemplate ungodly living. The destruction was not merely an act of judgment but a pedagogical act, publicly demonstrating the consequences of sin.
In both instances, δεῖγμα refers to a historical event of divine judgment that is held up as a tangible, undeniable proof of God's righteous wrath against sin. The emphasis is on the *demonstrative* quality of the example, serving as a clear warning.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words convey the idea of "example," but with distinct nuances:
* **δεικνύω (deiknyo, `{{G1166}}`)**: The foundational verb from which δεῖγμα is derived, meaning "to show" or "to exhibit." δεῖγμα is the *result* or *object* of this showing.
* **ὑπόδειγμα (hypodeigma, `{{G5262}}`)**: Often translated "example," "pattern," or "copy." It can refer to both positive examples to emulate (e.g., Christ's humility in [[John 13:15]]) and negative examples to avoid (e.g., the disobedience of Israel in [[Hebrews 4:11]]). While δεῖγμα in the NT is exclusively negative, ὑπόδειγμα has a broader range.
* **τύπος (typos, `{{G5179}}`)**: Meaning "type," "pattern," "mold," or "impression." It can denote a positive model for imitation (e.g., Paul as a τύπος in [[Philippians 3:17]]) or a negative warning (e.g., the Israelites' failures as τύποι for us in [[1 Corinthians 10:6]]). Like ὑπόδειγμα, its scope is wider than δεῖγμα.
* **ὑπογραμμός (hypogrammos, `{{G5261}}`)**: A "writing copy" or "example for imitation," used specifically in [[1 Peter 2:21]] to describe Christ's suffering as an example for believers to follow. This term strongly emphasizes imitation.
The key distinction for δεῖγμα in its New Testament usage is its exclusive application to a *negative, warning example* of divine judgment, emphasizing the *demonstrative proof* of God's righteous retribution. It is a visible manifestation of divine wrath.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of δεῖγμα lies in its powerful portrayal of God's active and just involvement in human history.
1. **Divine Justice and Retribution**: The use of δεῖγμα underscores the certainty of divine judgment against ungodliness and moral perversion. The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a timeless testament to God's commitment to righteousness and His unwavering opposition to sin. It is a concrete manifestation of His holy character.
2. **Pedagogical Purpose of Judgment**: God's judgments are not merely punitive but also pedagogical. By setting forth the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah as a δεῖγμα, God provides a clear, undeniable lesson for all generations. This δεῖγμα serves as a stark warning, intended to deter others from similar paths of rebellion and ungodliness. It highlights God's desire for humanity to learn from history and turn from sin.
3. **Consistency of God's Character**: The references in Jude and 2 Peter appeal to past divine action as a reliable indicator of God's future response to similar sin. The δεῖγμα of Sodom and Gomorrah demonstrates that God is consistent in His character and His principles of justice. What He did in the past, He will do again, underscoring the immutability of His moral law and the consequences of violating it.
4. **Call to Repentance and Holiness**: Ultimately, the δεῖγμα serves as a powerful incentive for repentance and a call to live godly lives. The vivid example of past judgment compels believers and unbelievers alike to consider the gravity of sin and the ultimate accountability before a holy God.
### Summary
δεῖγμα (deîgma, `{{G1164}}`) denotes a "specimen" or "example" derived from the concept of "showing" or "demonstrating." In the New Testament, its two occurrences in [[Jude 1:7]] and [[2 Peter 2:6]] exclusively refer to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah as a visible, undeniable *warning example* of divine judgment. This δεῖγμα serves as a concrete demonstration of God's righteous wrath against ungodliness and sexual immorality. Theologically, it highlights God's active justice in history, His use of past judgments for pedagogical purposes, the consistency of His character, and ultimately, serves as a solemn call to repentance and a deterrent against sin, underscoring the certainty of divine retribution.
TRV