from διά and λογίζομαι; to reckon thoroughly, i.e. (genitive case) to deliberate (by reflection or discussion):--cast in mind, consider, dispute, muse, reason, think.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dialogízomai**, represented by `{{G1260}}`, means to reckon thoroughly, to deliberate, or to reason. It appears 16 times across 15 unique verses in the Bible. The term encompasses a range of mental processes, from internal reflection and musing to external discussion and dispute.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G1260}}` is used to describe the act of deliberation in various contexts. It can signify a private, internal process, as when Mary "cast in her mind" what the angel's salutation meant [[Luke 1:29]] or when the rich man "thought within himself" what to do with his fruits [[Luke 12:17]]. It is also used for group discussion, such as when the scribes and Pharisees "began to reason" that Jesus was speaking blasphemies [[Luke 5:21]]. The disciples are often depicted reasoning among themselves out of confusion or a lack of faith, for example, about having no bread [[Matthew 16:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of deliberation and thought:
* `{{G1261}}` **dialogismós**: This is the noun form, meaning "discussion" or "reasoning." It frequently describes the end product of deliberation, such as the "evil thoughts" that proceed from the heart [[Matthew 15:19]] or the "doubtful disputations" that should be avoided [[Romans 14:1]].
* `{{G1921}}` **epiginṓskō**: Meaning to "perceive" or "become fully acquainted with." This word is often used in direct connection with `{{G1260}}`, as when Jesus **perceived** in his spirit that the scribes were **reasoning** in their hearts [[Mark 2:8]], highlighting a divine awareness that surpasses human deliberation.
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō**: This verb means to "know." It is set in contrast to human reasoning when Jesus **knew** his disciples were discussing their lack of bread and questioned why they **reason** about it [[Mark 8:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1260}}` is significant, often illustrating the condition of the human heart and the limits of human understanding.
* **The Heart as the Source of Reasoning:** The act of reasoning is frequently located "in their hearts," whether it is the people **musing** about John the Baptist [[Luke 3:15]] or the scribes **reasoning** against Christ [[Mark 2:6]]. This demonstrates that deliberation is not a purely intellectual exercise but stems from one's core beliefs and motivations.
* **Human Reasoning vs. Divine Faith:** The term often appears in contexts where human reasoning is flawed or insufficient. The disciples **reason** because of "little faith" [[Matthew 16:8]], and religious leaders **reason** to challenge Jesus' authority [[Matthew 21:25]], whereas faith requires belief without such skeptical deliberation.
* **Deliberation Leading to Action:** The process of reasoning often precedes a critical decision. The husbandmen in the parable first **reasoned** among themselves and then decided to kill the heir to claim the inheritance [[Luke 20:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1260}}` is more than a simple word for thinking. It describes a process of thorough deliberation that reveals the inner state of an individual or group. Whether it is the contemplative reflection of Mary, the anxious reasoning of the disciples, or the hostile disputing of the Pharisees, the term consistently draws a line between the often-limited processes of the human mind and the call to simple faith and divine understanding.
TRV