The Greek word diḗgesis, represented by G1335, means a recital or declaration. It appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. The term refers to an orderly and detailed narrative or account of events, rather than a simple announcement.
The single use of G1335 is found in the opening of Luke's Gospel. It is used to describe the attempts of many G4183 who had already undertaken the task of creating a written account. The verse states that these writers sought to "set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us" Luke 1:1. In this context, diḗgesis signifies a structured, comprehensive narrative of the events surrounding the life of Christ, compiled for the benefit of the believing community.
Several related words in its immediate context help clarify the meaning of G1335:
- G392 anatássomai (to arrange): This word is translated as "to set forth in order" and is directly linked to the act of creating the declaration G1335. It emphasizes that the narrative is not a random collection of stories but a structured and organized account Luke 1:1.
- G2021 epicheiréō (to put the hand upon, i.e. undertake): This describes the deliberate effort to create the narrative. The writers have "taken in hand" the task, showing that the declaration is a work of purpose and intention Luke 1:1.
- G4135 plērophoréō (to carry out fully... completely assure): This term qualifies the contents of the declaration as things that are "most surely believed." It establishes the narrative as an account of events held with full conviction by the community Luke 1:1.
- G4229 prâgma (a deed; by implication, an affair): This word, translated as "things," refers to the subject matter of the declaration. It indicates that the recital is concerned with actual events and matters of substance Luke 1:1.
The theological weight of G1335 is established by its introductory role in Luke's Gospel.
- Foundation of Written Testimony: The use of diḗgesis at the start of Luke's Gospel highlights the importance of creating an orderly, written record of God's redemptive work. It affirms the value of a structured narrative to preserve and communicate foundational truths.
- An Orderly Account of Divine Acts: The term underscores that the events of the Gospel are historical things G4229 that can be compiled into a coherent recital. This counters the idea of the Gospel being a myth, presenting it instead as a reliable account of divine action in human history.
- A Declaration of Communal Faith: The narrative is described as concerning things "most surely believed among us" G1722 Luke 1:1. This shows that the declaration is not a private interpretation but a documentation of the shared faith and convictions of the early Christian community.
In summary, G1335 is more than a simple word for a story. It signifies a deliberately composed, orderly, and comprehensive narrative. Its sole appearance in scripture is pivotal, establishing the purpose of Luke's Gospel as a reliable and structured declaration of events that are foundational to the Christian faith and "most surely believed" by its adherents Luke 1:1.
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