from διά and the base of νόμος; to distribute, i.e. (of information) to disseminate:--spread.
Transliteration:dianémō
Pronunciation:dee-an-em'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διανέμω (dianémō, `{{G1268}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition διά (dia), meaning "through" or "apart," and the verbal root νέμω (nemō), which signifies "to distribute," "apportion," or "deal out." The root νέμω is also the basis for νόμος (nomos, `{{G3551}}`), "law," conveying the idea of that which is allotted or established. Thus, διανέμω intrinsically carries the sense of a thorough, pervasive, or wide distribution. While it can apply to the distribution of physical items or portions, its primary usage, particularly in the New Testament, extends to the dissemination of information, news, or a message. In this semantic range, it means "to spread abroad," "to circulate widely," or "to propagate thoroughly." The prefix διά emphasizes the comprehensive and extensive nature of this distribution, suggesting that the information passes through various channels and reaches a broad audience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term διανέμω (dianémō, `{{G1268}}`) appears only once in the Greek New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 4:17]]. The context is critical for understanding its precise nuance. Peter and John have just performed a miraculous healing of a lame man at the Beautiful Gate, and they have boldly proclaimed Jesus' resurrection before the Sanhedrin. The Jewish authorities, deeply disturbed by the apostles' teaching and the undeniable miracle, convene to decide how to respond. Their concern is articulated in [[Acts 4:17]]: "But in order that it may not spread (διανέμω) further among the people, let us warn them strictly never again to speak in this name to anyone."
Here, διανέμω refers to the "word" or "message" about Jesus Christ and the power of His name. The Sanhedrin fears that this news, if allowed to continue, will not merely be heard by a few but will be thoroughly and widely distributed among the populace. The verb implies an active, almost uncontrollable, dissemination of information that bypasses their authority and influences the masses. It is not just a passive "spreading," but an active "dealing out" or "apportioning" of this truth to everyone, much like a distribution network. The authorities recognize the potency of the message and the rapid, pervasive way it is being communicated, necessitating their swift, albeit futile, intervention.
### Related Words & Concepts
The core of διανέμω lies in the concept of distribution. Related Greek terms include:
* νέμω (nemō): The base verb, implying simple distribution or pasturing.
* νόμος (nomos, `{{G3551}}`): "Law" or "custom," derived from the idea of that which is allotted or established.
* διαγγέλλω (diangéllō, `{{G1229}}`): To report throughout, to proclaim fully. While similar in conveying widespread communication, διανέμω emphasizes the *distribution* of the information itself, whereas διαγγέλλω focuses more on the act of *proclaiming*.
* κηρύσσω (kērýssō, `{{G2784}}`): To proclaim as a herald, to preach. This term highlights the authoritative declaration of a message.
* εὐαγγελίζω (euangelízō, `{{G2097}}`): To preach good news, to evangelize. This focuses on the content of the message as "good news."
* λόγος (logos, `{{G3056}}`): "Word," "message," "account." This is often the object of διανέμω, referring to the information itself that is being spread.
The concept of "spreading the word" is a recurring theme in the New Testament, often denoting the rapid expansion of the Gospel message. διανέμω uniquely captures the thorough and pervasive nature of this dissemination, as if the message is being carefully, yet widely, apportioned to all.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of διανέμω in [[Acts 4:17]] carries profound theological weight. It underscores the inherent power and unstoppable nature of the Gospel message. The Sanhedrin, representing the established religious and political authority, recognizes that the truth about Jesus' resurrection and power cannot be contained. They perceive the message not merely as a rumor but as something actively and effectively being "distributed" among the people, threatening their control.
This highlights several key theological points:
1. **The Unstoppable Nature of God's Word:** Despite human opposition, divine truth possesses an intrinsic dynamism that enables it to spread widely and overcome barriers. The fear of the Sanhedrin is a testament to the efficacy of the Holy Spirit in propagating the message.
2. **The Power of Witness:** The apostles' bold witness, empowered by the Holy Spirit, initiated this widespread distribution of the news. It demonstrates that faithful proclamation leads to widespread dissemination.
3. **Divine Sovereignty in Evangelism:** Even when human authorities attempt to suppress the message, God's plan for the distribution of the "word" prevails. The thoroughness implied by διανέμω suggests a divine orchestration in ensuring the message reaches its intended recipients.
4. **The Threat of Truth to Worldly Powers:** The Sanhedrin's reaction reveals how divine truth, when fully distributed, challenges and threatens established systems that are not aligned with God's will.
### Summary
διανέμω (dianémō, `{{G1268}}`) is a Greek verb signifying "to distribute thoroughly" or "to disseminate widely," particularly of information or a message. Its etymology, combining διά (through) and νέμω (distribute), emphasizes the comprehensive and pervasive nature of this spreading. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 4:17]] is highly significant, depicting the Sanhedrin's fear that the news of Jesus' resurrection and the apostles' power would be thoroughly and uncontrollably distributed among the people. This word powerfully illustrates the inherent dynamism of God's truth, its capacity to overcome opposition, and its divinely ordained mission to be widely proclaimed and received, challenging human attempts at suppression.
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