### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb δειγματίζω (G1165), transliterated as *deigmatízō*, is derived from the noun δεῖγμα (deigma), which signifies "a sample," "a specimen," or "an example." Consequently, δειγματίζω fundamentally means "to make an example of," "to exhibit publicly," or "to expose conspicuously." The semantic range includes the nuance of "to put to open shame" or "to make a public spectacle," often implying a negative or humiliating exposure for the subject being displayed. It is not merely to "show," but to "show *as a public example*," thereby emphasizing the public and demonstrative nature of the act.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
This verb appears twice in the New Testament, each instance offering profound contextual insights:
* **[[Matthew 1:19]]**: "Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily."
* Here, δειγματίζω clearly denotes "to make a public example of" or "to expose to public shame." Joseph, as a righteous man, understood that according to the Mosaic Law, Mary's apparent unfaithfulness could lead to public disgrace or even stoning. His decision to "put her away privily" (ἀπολῦσαι λάθρᾳ) directly contrasts with the act of δειγματίζω, revealing his compassionate and merciful character. This usage underscores the severe social and personal consequences associated with public exposure in that cultural context.
* **[[Colossians 2:15]]**: "And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it."
* In this powerful theological statement, Christ is the active subject, and the "principalities and powers" (ἀρχὰς καὶ ἐξουσίας)—referring to demonic spiritual forces—are the object. Christ "made a shew of them openly" (ἐδειγμάτισεν ἐν παρρησίᾳ). The imagery here is that of a Roman triumphal procession, where a victorious general would parade his vanquished foes through the streets to publicly display their defeat. Christ, through His death and resurrection, disarmed these cosmic powers, stripping them of their authority and publicly exhibiting them as conquered enemies. This is an act of divine triumph, a public declaration of their subjugation, rendering them powerless against those who are in Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
The core meaning of δειγματίζω is reinforced by its root and related terms:
* δεῖγμα (deigma): The noun from which δειγματίζω is derived, meaning "an example" or "a sample."
* παραδειγματίζω (paradeigmatízō - `{{G3856}}`): A closely related verb, meaning "to make a public example of" or "to put to open shame." It appears in [[Hebrews 6:6]] in the context of apostasy, where those who fall away are said to "crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame." This further solidifies the connotation of public disgrace associated with the root.
* Concepts: Public exposure, humiliation, shaming, triumph, demonstration of power, disarming.
* Contrast: While other verbs like δείκνυμι (deiknymi - `{{G1166}}`) mean simply "to show" or "to point out," δειγματίζω carries the specific nuance of making an *example* or *spectacle* for public observation, often with significant implications for the one being displayed.
### Theological Significance
The dual usage of δειγματίζω in the New Testament highlights distinct yet interconnected theological truths:
* In [[Matthew 1:19]], Joseph's refusal to δειγματίζω Mary reveals a profound act of grace and compassion, mirroring divine mercy. It underscores the character of God, who, even in the face of perceived sin, desires to extend grace and avoid unnecessary public humiliation. This act by Joseph is a quiet testament to the redemptive plan that would unfold through Christ, who came not to condemn but to save. It also illuminates the cultural weight of shame and honor in the ancient world.
* In [[Colossians 2:15]], δειγματίζω is employed to declare Christ's absolute and public victory over the forces of evil. The cross, often perceived as a symbol of shame and defeat, is paradoxically presented as the very instrument through which Christ "made a shew" of the principalities and powers. This public display signifies their utter defeat, disarming them of their authority and rendering them impotent against believers. This triumphant act assures believers of their freedom from spiritual bondage and the decisive nature of Christ's atoning work. It is a cosmic declaration of Christ's sovereignty and the complete efficacy of His sacrifice.
### Summary
The Greek verb δειγματίζω (G1165) signifies "to make a public example of" or "to expose openly." Derived from δεῖγμα, meaning "a sample" or "an example," it carries the weight of a conspicuous display, often with connotations of shame or humiliation for the exposed party. Its two New Testament occurrences are highly significant. In [[Matthew 1:19]], it illuminates Joseph's merciful intent to avoid publicly shaming Mary, reflecting a divine attribute of grace. In [[Colossians 2:15]], it powerfully describes Christ's triumphant act of disarming and openly displaying the defeated principalities and powers, showcasing His ultimate victory over spiritual evil through the cross. Thus, δειγματίζω encapsulates themes of public exposure, whether for the purpose of avoiding disgrace or for declaring a decisive, cosmic triumph.
TRV