from διά and (to effect); to accomplish thoroughly:--finish.
Transliteration:dianýō
Pronunciation:dee-an-oo'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb dianýō (διανύω) `{{G1274}}` is a compound word derived from the preposition diá (διά), meaning "through" or indicating completion/thoroughness, and the verb anýō (ἀνύω), meaning "to accomplish," "to effect," or "to bring to an end." The combination yields a rich meaning: "to accomplish thoroughly," "to finish through," or "to bring to a complete end by passing through the entire course." It implies not merely a cessation, but the successful traversal of a process, journey, or task to its intended conclusion, leaving nothing undone or incomplete. The nuance is one of definitive and exhaustive completion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb dianýō (διανύω) `{{G1274}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts:
* [[Acts 21:7]]: "And when we had dianýō (διανύω) the voyage from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais; and after greeting the brothers, we stayed with them for one day."
In this sole occurrence, dianýō describes the completion of a specific leg of Paul's missionary journey. The phrase "had finished the voyage" (διανύσαντες τὸν πλοῦν) signifies that the ship had successfully traversed the entire distance from Tyre and reached its destination, Ptolemais. The word emphasizes the successful and complete execution of the sea journey, bringing the travelers to their intended port. It highlights the purposeful nature of their travel and the divine guidance that brought them safely to their next stopping point, ready to continue their mission.
### Related Words & Concepts
* anýō (ἀνύω): The root verb `{{G496}}`, meaning "to accomplish," "to effect," or "to bring to an end." The prefix diá (διά) intensifies this basic meaning, emphasizing the thoroughness of the completion.
* teleō (τελέω) `{{G5055}}`: A very common Greek verb meaning "to finish," "to complete," "to bring to an end." While teleō is a broader term, dianýō specifically conveys the sense of traversing a full course or process to its end. For example, teleō is used in [[John 19:30]] ("It is finished!") to describe Christ's completed work on the cross.
* plēroō (πληρόω) `{{G4137}}`: Meaning "to fill," "to fulfill," or "to complete." Often used in the context of fulfilling prophecy or completing a period of time.
* peras (πέρας) `{{G4009}}`: A noun meaning "end," "limit," or "completion."
* The concept of "completing the course" or "finishing the race" (e.g., dromos `{{G1697}}` in [[Acts 20:24]] and [[2 Timothy 4:7]]) resonates with the meaning of dianýō, as it speaks to the successful conclusion of a divinely appointed path or ministry.
### Theological Significance
Though dianýō (διανύω) `{{G1274}}` appears only once in the New Testament, its usage in [[Acts 21:7]] carries subtle theological weight. It underscores the providential care and guidance of God over the journeys of His apostles. The "finishing" of the voyage is not merely a natural event but part of a divinely orchestrated plan, enabling Paul and his companions to reach their next destination safely and continue their ministry. It speaks to God's faithfulness in bringing His servants through their appointed paths and to their intended destinations, even amidst the inherent dangers and uncertainties of ancient travel. In a broader sense, it serves as a minor echo of the ultimate "finishing" of God's redemptive purposes, culminating in the complete work of Christ. It reminds believers that God is the one who enables and brings to full completion the paths and callings He sets before them, whether literal journeys or spiritual ministries.
### Summary
dianýō (διανύω) `{{G1274}}` is a Greek verb meaning "to accomplish thoroughly" or "to finish through," emphasizing the complete and definitive conclusion of a process, task, or journey. Its single New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 21:7]] describes the successful completion of Paul's voyage to Ptolemais. This specific usage highlights the full traversal of a course to its intended end, subtly pointing to the divine oversight and enablement that guides God's servants and brings His purposes to fruition. While a rare word, it contributes to the biblical narrative of God's faithfulness in bringing all things, including the arduous journeys of His apostles, to their appointed and complete conclusion.
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