from γραπτός and γνωρίζω; to tell abroad:--make known.
Transliteration:diagnōrízō
Pronunciation:dee-ag-no-rid'-zo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διαγνωρίζω (G1232, transliterated as *diagnōrízō*) is a compound word formed from the preposition διά (*dia*), meaning "through" or "thoroughly," and the verb γνωρίζω (*gnōrizō*, `{{G1107}}`), meaning "to make known," "to cause to know," or "to reveal." The combination of these elements suggests an intensified or widespread making known—a thorough and complete disclosure. While the provided base definition notes its derivation from γραπτός (graptos, written) and γνωρίζω, the more common and linguistically sound understanding of its etymology points to διά and γνωρίζω. Thus, διαγνωρίζω signifies to make something known fully, clearly, or extensively, to "tell abroad," or to "make known" in a profound and comprehensive manner.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
This significant verb appears only once in the New Testament, found in Peter's sermon on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2. The specific occurrence is in [[Acts 2:28]], where Peter quotes from Psalm 16:11 (LXX) concerning the resurrection of Christ: "You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence."
In this context, διαγνωρίζω describes God's direct action toward the Messiah. The "paths of life" refer not merely to physical existence but to the way of resurrection and eternal communion with God, a path that triumphs over death and the grave. Peter uses this prophetic utterance to underscore that God had revealed to the Messiah, Jesus, the way out of death into life, thereby fulfilling the ancient prophecy. The use of διαγνωρίζω here emphasizes the absolute certainty and divine intentionality of this revelation. It was not a partial or obscure disclosure, but a full and complete making known of the path to victory over death, culminating in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This verse is pivotal in Peter's argument for Jesus' messianic identity and his resurrection as the cornerstone of the Christian faith.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek terms share a semantic field with διαγνωρίζω in the realm of revelation and knowledge:
* γνωρίζω (*gnōrizō*, `{{G1107}}`): The root verb, meaning "to make known" or "to reveal." διαγνωρίζω intensifies this basic meaning.
* φανερόω (*phaneroō*, `{{G5319}}`): "To make manifest," "to reveal," often implying making something visible or evident that was previously hidden.
* ἀποκαλύπτω (*apokalyptō*, `{{G601}}`): "To uncover," "to reveal," with a strong sense of removing a veil to disclose what was hidden.
* δῆλος (*dēlos*, `{{G1212}}`) and δηλόω (*dēloō*, `{{G1213}}`): "Clear," "evident," and "to make clear" or "to show."
These words collectively highlight the biblical emphasis on God's active role in disclosing divine truth, plans, and the very nature of reality to humanity. διαγνωρίζω specifically points to a thorough and complete form of this divine disclosure, particularly concerning the ultimate path of life.
### Theological Significance
The solitary yet profound use of διαγνωρίζω in [[Acts 2:28]] carries immense theological weight. It speaks directly to the divine plan for Christ's resurrection and ascension. God "made known" to Christ the "paths of life," signifying not only foreknowledge but also the active, sovereign provision of the means by which Christ would overcome death. This revelation is foundational to Christian eschatology, as Christ's resurrection is the prototype and guarantee of the resurrection for all who believe in Him.
The "paths of life" are the very essence of salvation, leading to eternal fellowship with God and "joy in His presence." This joy is not merely an emotional state but the profound blessedness of being in the unhindered presence of the Almighty. Thus, διαγνωρίζω encapsulates God's precise and perfect revelation of the means of eternal life through His Son, a revelation that undergirds the hope and joy of all believers. It underscores the divine initiative in salvation, where God Himself reveals and provides the way back to life and fellowship.
### Summary
διαγνωρίζω (G1232, *diagnōrízō*) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to make thoroughly known" or "to declare widely." Though it appears only once in the New Testament, its singular occurrence in [[Acts 2:28]] is deeply significant. In Peter's Pentecost sermon, it describes God's complete and certain revelation to the Messiah concerning the "paths of life," referring to Christ's resurrection and triumph over death. This divine disclosure is the bedrock of Christian hope, promising eternal life and joy in God's presence through Christ. The word emphasizes the thoroughness and divine intentionality of God's revelation, solidifying the truth of Christ's victory and its implications for all who believe.
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