### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term διερμηνευτής (diermēneutḗs) is a noun derived from the verb διερμηνεύω (diermēneuō), `{{G1329}}`. The prefix διά (dia) intensifies the action of ἑρμηνεύω (hermēneuō), which means "to interpret" or "to explain." Therefore, διερμηνεύω signifies a thorough, complete, or comprehensive interpretation, often involving translation from one language to another or a clear exposition of something obscure. As a noun, διερμηνευτής denotes the *person* who performs this act of thorough interpretation or explanation. It specifically refers to an "interpreter" or "explainer," someone who renders an unintelligible communication intelligible, ensuring full comprehension for the audience. The emphasis is on clarity, accuracy, and the successful bridging of a linguistic or conceptual gap.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term διερμηνευτής appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[1 Corinthians 14:28]]. This singular occurrence is highly significant for understanding its function within the early Christian community.
In [[1 Corinthians 14]], the Apostle Paul provides detailed instructions regarding the proper exercise of spiritual gifts, particularly the gifts of tongues and prophecy, within the church assembly. He stresses the importance of order ([[1 Corinthians 14:33]]) and edification ([[1 Corinthians 14:26]]).
Specifically, in [[1 Corinthians 14:27-28]], Paul states: "If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter [διερμηνευτής], let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God."
Here, the διερμηνευτής is presented as an indispensable figure when the gift of tongues is exercised publicly. Without an interpreter, speaking in tongues, though a genuine spiritual gift, fails to edify the congregation because the message remains incomprehensible. The interpreter's role is to make the divine utterance accessible and understandable to all present, thereby transforming a private or unintelligible expression into a public and beneficial message. This highlights the practical necessity of the interpreter for the communal benefit and spiritual growth of the church.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation is to the verb διερμηνεύω (diermēneuō), `{{G1329}}`, from which διερμηνευτής is derived. This verb is used in various contexts in the New Testament, such as translating names (e.g., "Tabitha, which is translated [διερμηνεύω] Dorcas" in [[Acts 9:36]]) or explaining scripture (e.g., Jesus "interpreted [διερμηνεύω] to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself" in [[Luke 24:27]]).
The concept of the διερμηνευτής is closely linked to **hermeneutics**, the science and art of interpretation, especially of sacred texts. While διερμηνευτής refers to the *person*, the underlying principle is the clear and accurate rendering of meaning.
Paul's discussion in [[1 Corinthians 14]] often contrasts the gift of tongues with **prophecy** (προφητεία, `{{G4394}}`). Prophecy is inherently understandable and directly edifying for the assembly ([[1 Corinthians 14:3-4]]). The interpreter's role effectively makes an utterance in tongues function similarly to prophecy for the benefit of the gathered believers, transforming an otherwise unintelligible message into one that can edify.
The function of an διερμηνευτής also shares conceptual ground with **teaching** (διδασκαλία, `{{G1319}}`) and **exhortation** (παράκλησις, `{{G3874}}`), as all these activities aim to convey understanding and build up the church. However, the διερμηνευτής specifically deals with the immediate rendering of a divine utterance, making it distinct from general teaching or preaching.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of διερμηνευτής in [[1 Corinthians 14:28]] carries profound theological implications for the nature and function of spiritual gifts within the church:
* **Order and Edification:** The primary theological principle underscored by the need for an διερμηνευτής is that all spiritual gifts exercised in the church must contribute to order and the edification of the corporate body of Christ ([[1 Corinthians 14:26]]). Gifts are not for individual display or chaotic expression, but for the mutual upbuilding of the community.
* **Accessibility of Divine Revelation:** God desires to communicate clearly with His people. The διερμηνευτής ensures that divine revelation, even when manifested through the mysterious gift of tongues, remains accessible and beneficial to the entire congregation. This reflects God's character as one who desires to be understood by His creation.
* **Interdependence of Gifts:** The requirement for an interpreter highlights the interdependence of spiritual gifts. The gift of tongues, while valid and potentially edifying for the individual ([[1 Corinthians 14:4]]), requires the complementary gift of interpretation to fulfill its public purpose. No single gift is self-sufficient for the full edification of the church; rather, the body functions harmoniously through the diverse and complementary operations of the Spirit ([[1 Corinthians 12:4-7]]).
* **Primacy of Understanding:** Paul's argument throughout [[1 Corinthians 14]] consistently prioritizes understanding over mere sound. The emphasis on interpretation reflects God's desire for His people to grasp His message intellectually and spiritually, leading to genuine spiritual growth and worship "with the mind" ([[1 Corinthians 14:15]]).
### Summary
The Greek term διερμηνευτής (diermēneutḗs) designates an "interpreter" or "explainer," a person whose role is to thoroughly and clearly translate or expound something previously unintelligible. Appearing uniquely in [[1 Corinthians 14:28]], this word is central to Paul's instructions regarding the proper use of spiritual gifts in the early church. Paul mandates the presence of a διερμηνευτής when the gift of tongues is exercised publicly, ensuring that the message is rendered understandable and thus edifying for the entire congregation. This requirement underscores crucial theological principles: the necessity of order and edification in corporate worship, God's desire for His divine revelation to be accessible and comprehensible to His people, and the beautiful interdependence of diverse spiritual gifts working together for the common good of the body of Christ. The διερμηνευτής serves as a vital bridge, transforming an otherwise obscure spiritual utterance into a clear and beneficial communication that builds up the church.
TRV