### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dianoígō**, represented by `{{G1272}}`, means **to open thoroughly**. It appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is used in both a literal sense, such as describing the first-born male who "openeth the womb," and a figurative sense, meaning to expound or make something understood.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1272}}` is used to describe acts of divine opening, both physical and spiritual. Literally, it is used in fulfillment of the law concerning the firstborn [[Luke 2:23]] and to describe Jesus's miraculous healing when he made a man's ears be "opened" [[Mark 7:34-35]]. Figuratively, the term signifies a divine granting of understanding. Jesus "opened" the disciples' understanding so they could comprehend the scriptures [[Luke 24:45]]. Similarly, the Lord "opened" Lydia's heart to pay attention to Paul's message [[Acts 16:14]], and the disciples on the road to Emmaus recalled how Jesus had "opened" the scriptures to them [[Luke 24:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the meaning and result of the act of "opening":
* `{{G3563}}` **noûs** (understanding): This word for "the intellect, i.e. mind," is the direct object of the action in [[Luke 24:45]], where Jesus "opened he their **understanding**."
* `{{G4920}}` **syníēmi** (understand): Defined as "to put together, i.e. (mentally) to comprehend," this is the purpose for opening the mind. After their minds were opened, the disciples could **understand** the scriptures [[Luke 24:45]].
* `{{G1921}}` **epiginṓskō** (know well): Meaning "to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge," this is the result when the disciples' eyes were "opened" and they finally **knew** the resurrected Christ [[Luke 24:31]].
* `{{G4337}}` **proséchō** (attend): Meaning "to hold the mind towards, i.e. pay attention to," this is the result of the Lord opening Lydia's heart, causing her to **attend** to what Paul spoke [[Acts 16:14]].
* `{{G3908}}` **paratíthēmi** (allege): This term, meaning "to place alongside, i.e. present (food, truth)," is used in parallel with `{{G1272}}` in [[Acts 17:3]], where Paul was "Opening and **alleging**" the truth about Christ.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1272}}` centers on the theme of divine intervention being necessary for revelation and restoration.
* **Spiritual Illumination:** The word emphasizes that true understanding of scripture is not merely an intellectual exercise but a gift from God. Christ must "open" the mind [[Luke 24:45]], the heart [[Acts 16:14]], and the scriptures themselves [[Luke 24:32]] for comprehension to occur.
* **Messianic Power:** The literal use of `{{G1272}}` in healing demonstrates Christ's authority over the physical body. His ability to open a man's ears [[Mark 7:35]] and the disciples' eyes [[Luke 24:31]] serves as a sign of his restorative power.
* **Sanctification and Law:** Its use in relation to the firstborn who "openeth the womb" [[Luke 2:23]] connects the act of opening to the holiness and dedication required by God's law, a concept fulfilled in Christ.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1272}}` conveys a powerful concept of a thorough opening that can only be initiated by a divine source. Whether used literally for physical healing and birth or figuratively for spiritual enlightenment, the word underscores that God is the one who opens what was closed. It illustrates that for humanity to see, hear, or understand divine truth, God must first act to open our eyes, ears, and hearts.
TRV