### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dianémō**, represented by `{{G1268}}`, means to distribute or disseminate, specifically used in the context of information being **spread**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant. The term is derived from διά and the base of νόμος, indicating a thorough distribution.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G1268}}` is used by the religious authorities who are attempting to halt the apostles' testimony. They conspire to stop the message from being **spread** any further among the people, deciding to "straitly threaten them" so they would no longer speak to any man in Jesus' name [[Acts 4:17]]. The word here describes the very dissemination of the gospel that the authorities feared and sought to suppress.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text clarify the context of this attempt to stop a message from spreading:
* `{{G2980}}` **laléō** (to talk, i.e. utter words): This specifies the method of dissemination. The apostles were forbidden to **speak** henceforth in that name [[Acts 4:17]], which is the action that causes the message to spread.
* `{{G2992}}` **laós** (a people): This identifies the audience. The authorities' goal was to prevent the teaching from spreading among the **people** [[Acts 4:17]], the very ones God promises to make His own [[Hebrews 8:10]].
* `{{G546}}` **apeiléō** (to menace; by implication, to forbid): This reveals the means of suppression. The council resolved to **threaten** the apostles [[Acts 4:17]], a stark contrast to Jesus who, when he suffered, "threatened not" [[1 Peter 2:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1268}}` is found in its specific, negative application. It highlights key dynamics of the early church's mission.
* **Inherent Opposition:** The word's only context is one of active suppression, demonstrating that the spread of the gospel message immediately faced powerful opposition from established religious structures [[Acts 4:17]].
* **The Perceived Power of Proclamation:** The council's fear that the message would **spread** reveals their understanding of its power and appeal. Their need to threaten the apostles implies that simple commands were insufficient to stop the dissemination of the truth about the name of Jesus.
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The verse directly links the act of spreading the message to the consequence of being threatened. This establishes a foundational theme in the book of Acts: that proclaiming the name of Jesus often leads to persecution.
### Summary
In summary, **dianémō** `{{G1268}}` is a term whose biblical meaning is defined by its solitary context. While it means to disseminate or **spread**, its only use is in a command intended to prevent this very action. This negative framing powerfully illustrates the threat that the gospel posed to the authorities and underscores the unstoppable nature of the message they sought to contain. The word captures a pivotal moment of conflict between human authority and divine proclamation.
TRV