### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun G135 (αἴνιγμα, transliterated as *aínigma*) derives from a root related to αἶνος (praise, but more broadly, a story or fable). In its primary sense, αἴνιγμα denotes an obscure saying, a riddle, or an enigma. It conveys the idea of something veiled, indirect, or difficult to comprehend fully. The term emphasizes the quality of obscurity or dimness in perception, rather than a complete lack of understanding. It describes a form of communication or apprehension that is not direct, clear, or face-to-face, but rather indirect, like looking through a medium that distorts or partially conceals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G135 occurs only once in the New Testament, found in the apostle Paul's profound discourse on love in [[1 Corinthians 13:12]]: "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known." (ESV). The phrase "in a mirror dimly" translates the Greek "δι' ἐσόπτρου ἐν αἰνίγματι" (dia esoptrou en ainigmati), literally "through a mirror in an enigma." This vivid metaphor contrasts the current, imperfect mode of understanding divine realities with the future, perfect clarity that believers will experience in God's presence.
In the ancient world, mirrors were typically made of polished metal and often provided a less clear, more distorted reflection than modern glass mirrors. Thus, seeing "in a mirror" already implies an indirect and imperfect view. The addition of "in an enigma" (ἐν αἰνίγματι) further intensifies this sense of obscurity, suggesting that our present knowledge of God and His truths is like peering at a riddle or a veiled image. It is not utterly dark, but neither is it fully lucid. This partial and enigmatic knowledge stands in stark contrast to the direct, unmediated "face to face" knowledge promised for the eschatological future. Paul uses αἴνιγμα to underscore the provisional and incomplete nature of all human knowledge, including spiritual gifts like prophecy and knowledge, in the present age.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept conveyed by G135 (αἴνιγμα) relates to several other biblical terms and ideas. It stands in contrast to `{{G601}}` (ἀποκάλυψις, *apokalypsis*), meaning "revelation," which signifies the unveiling or making known of what was previously hidden. While God's revelation is true, our *perception* of it in this age is likened to an αἴνιγμα.
The Old Testament often uses the Hebrew word `{{H2420}}` (חִידָה, *chîdah*), translated in the Septuagint by αἴνιγμα, to refer to riddles, dark sayings, or perplexing questions (e.g., [[Numbers 12:8]], [[Judges 14:12]], [[Proverbs 1:6]], [[Ezekiel 17:2]]). For instance, in [[Numbers 12:8]], God contrasts His direct communication with Moses ("mouth to mouth... not in riddles" - αἰνίγμασιν) with His communication through visions and dreams to other prophets. This Old Testament usage reinforces the idea of αἴνιγμα as indirect or obscure communication, distinguishing it from clear, direct speech.
Other related Greek words include `{{G1097}}` (γινώσκω, *ginōskō*, to know) and `{{G1012}}` (βλέπω, *blepō*, to see), which represent the very faculties of perception and cognition that are currently limited and enigmatic. The idea of `{{G3466}}` (μυστήριον, *mystērion*, mystery) also bears some relation, though distinct. A μυστήριον is a divine truth previously hidden but now revealed, whereas αἴνιγμα describes the *manner* of our current, imperfect apprehension of that truth.
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of G135 (αἴνιγμα) in [[1 Corinthians 13:12]] carries profound theological significance. It articulates the fundamental epistemological humility required of believers in the present age. Our knowledge of God, His purposes, and His kingdom is inherently partial and imperfect. This "dim" vision underscores several key theological truths:
1. **Human Limitation:** It acknowledges the finite capacity of human beings to fully grasp the infinite and transcendent God. Our current existence, bound by time and space, limits our perception of eternal realities.
2. **The Nature of Revelation:** While God has revealed Himself truly, He has done so in a manner appropriate to our current state. The full brilliance of His glory would be overwhelming. The αἴνιγμα allows for progressive understanding.
3. **The Role of Faith:** Because our knowledge is enigmatic, faith becomes indispensable. We walk by faith, not by sight, trusting in the unseen realities and the promises of God, even when our understanding is incomplete.
4. **Eschatological Hope:** The contrast between "now" (ἐν αἰνίγματι) and "then" (πρόσωπον πρὸς πρόσωπον - face to face) provides immense hope. It points to a future state of perfect, unmediated communion with God, where all obscurity will vanish, and we will know fully, just as we are fully known by Him. This future clarity is a cornerstone of Christian hope.
5. **Primacy of Love:** Within the context of [[1 Corinthians 13]], the αἴνιγμα of knowledge highlights the enduring superiority of love. Even if our knowledge is imperfect, love never fails. It is the ultimate and eternal virtue that transcends the temporary nature of partial understanding.
### Summary
The Greek word G135 (αἴνιγμα) denotes an obscure saying, a riddle, or a dim perception. Its singular New Testament appearance in [[1 Corinthians 13:12]] powerfully describes the current, provisional nature of human knowledge of God. We presently "see in a mirror dimly," or "in an enigma," meaning our understanding is indirect, partial, and veiled. This stands in stark contrast to the future, perfect, and unmediated knowledge that believers will experience when they see God "face to face." The theological implications are profound, calling for humility in our present understanding, fostering hope for future clarity, and ultimately affirming the enduring supremacy of love over all temporary forms of knowledge. The αἴνιγμα serves as a poignant reminder of our journey from partial apprehension to full, glorious revelation in the presence of the Divine.
TRV