### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word dianóēma (`{{G1270}}`) is derived from the preposition διά (dia), meaning "through" or "thoroughly," and the verb νοέω (noieō), meaning "to perceive, think, understand." This etymological combination indicates a profound and thorough process of mental activity. Unlike a fleeting idea or a simple perception, dianóēma signifies something that has been "thought through" or "reasoned out." It denotes the result of such a process: a settled thought, a considered opinion, a deeply held sentiment, or even an intention that has taken shape in the mind. Its semantic range thus encompasses not just the act of thinking, but the formed product of one's intellect and will, often implying a deliberate and considered internal disposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term dianóēma (`{{G1270}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Luke 11:17]]. In this passage, Jesus has just cast out a demon, and some in the crowd accuse Him of doing so by the power of Beelzebul, the ruler of demons. The text states, "But He, knowing their thoughts (dianóēmata), said to them, 'Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls.'" The plural form, dianóēmata, emphasizes the multiple, perhaps varied, but deeply held reasonings or intentions of those who were opposing Him. Jesus' ability to perceive these inner "thoughts" or "sentiments" highlights His divine omniscience. He does not merely respond to their spoken accusations but addresses the underlying, formed conclusions and intentions within their hearts and minds. This demonstrates that their opposition was not a spontaneous outburst but a considered, internal deliberation, which Jesus supernaturally discerned.
### Related Words & Concepts
Dianóēma (`{{G1270}}`) is intimately related to other Greek terms for mental activity, yet distinct in its emphasis. It is closely connected to δiάνοια (dianoia, `{{G1271}}`), which refers to the faculty of the mind, the understanding, or the act of thinking itself. While dianoia describes the capacity or process, dianóēma denotes the *product* or *outcome* of that process—a formed thought or sentiment. Other related words include ἐνθύμησις (enthymēsis, `{{G1771}}`), which signifies a "deliberation" or "consideration," often implying a bringing to mind or pondering; and λογισμός (logismos, `{{G3053}}`), referring to a "reasoning" or "calculation," which can be either good or evil. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew concept of the "heart" (לֵבָב, levav, `{{H3824}}`) often encompasses the seat of thought, will, and emotion, from which such dianóēmata emerge. All these terms underscore the biblical emphasis on the internal, unseen world of human thought and intention, which is fully transparent to God.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of dianóēma (`{{G1270}}`) in [[Luke 11:17]] carries significant theological weight. It serves as a powerful testament to Jesus' divine nature and His comprehensive knowledge of the human heart. This echoes Old Testament affirmations that God alone knows the hearts of all people (e.g., [[1 Samuel 16:7]], [[1 Kings 8:39]], [[Jeremiah 17:10]]). Jesus' perception of the dianóēmata of His accusers underscores that God's judgment extends beyond outward actions to the deepest intentions and reasonings of the mind. This truth is further elaborated in passages like [[Hebrews 4:12-13]], which states that the Word of God discerns the "thoughts and intentions of the heart." The word dianóēma highlights that human beings are accountable not only for their deeds but also for their deeply considered thoughts and internal dispositions. It implicitly calls believers to a transformation of the mind (cf. [[Romans 12:2]]), recognizing that the inner life, with its formed sentiments and intentions, is fully known to God and crucial for genuine righteousness.
### Summary
Dianóēma (`{{G1270}}`) signifies a deeply considered thought, a formed sentiment, or a settled intention, the product of thorough mental deliberation. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Luke 11:17]] powerfully illustrates Jesus' divine omniscience, as He perceives the hidden, reasoned opposition within the hearts of His accusers. This term underscores the biblical emphasis on the inner life, revealing that God's knowledge and judgment extend to the most profound and deliberate thoughts of humanity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating a pure and righteous internal world, as all dianóēmata are fully known to the Lord.
TRV