### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diïknéomai**, represented by `{{G1338}}`, means **to reach through** or **penetrate**, and is translated as **pierce**. It is derived from διά (meaning "through") and the base of ἱκανός. This specific term appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1338}}` is in [[Hebrews 4:12]], where it is used to describe the profound capability of the word of God. The verse characterizes God's word as being "quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword," capable of **piercing** to the point of dividing soul from spirit and joints from marrow. This illustrates an intense, penetrating action that goes beyond physical cutting to reach the deepest, most indivisible aspects of a person.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words found in its immediate context help to illuminate the meaning of `{{G1338}}`:
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live, quick): This word establishes the subject being described—the Word of God—as being alive. Its ability to pierce stems from the fact that it is **quick**, or living [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* `{{G5114}}` **tomṓteros** (more keen, sharper): This comparative term directly modifies the metaphorical sword, establishing a level of sharpness that enables the **piercing** action of `{{G1338}}`. It is used to state the word of God is **sharper** than any twoedged sword [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* `{{G2924}}` **kritikós** (decisive, discriminative, a discerner): This describes the purpose of the piercing action. The word of God penetrates the heart in order to act as a **discerner** of its thoughts and intents [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* `{{G3311}}` **merismós** (a separation or distribution): This word describes the result of the piercing. The word is so sharp it achieves a **dividing asunder** of soul and spirit, a feat impossible for any physical blade [[Hebrews 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1338}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **The Penetrative Power of God's Word:** The term is used to teach that God's word is not a static text but an active force. It has the divine ability to **pierce** the innermost, non-physical parts of a person, exposing what is otherwise hidden [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* **Divine Scrutiny:** The act of piercing is for the purpose of revelation and judgment. The word penetrates in order to be a "discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart," showing that nothing within a person is concealed from God's sight [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* **The Word as an Active Agent:** Paired with words like "quick" `{{G2198}}` and "powerful" `{{G1756}}`, the action of **piercing** reinforces the theology of the word of God as a living and operative agent that actively accomplishes God's will.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1338}}` offers a crucial insight into the nature of God's word. Though used only once, its appearance in [[Hebrews 4:12]] provides a vivid and unforgettable metaphor. To **pierce** is to demonstrate the Word's unique power as a living, sharp, and discerning instrument that can reach into the core of human consciousness, separating soul and spirit and evaluating the very thoughts and intents of the heart.
TRV