### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **emphanízō**, represented by `{{G1718}}`, means to exhibit, disclose, or make manifest. Its root definition includes actions like appearing in person, declaring something plainly by words, or formally informing someone. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying a sense of making something clearly known that was previously hidden or unseen.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1718}}` is used in two primary contexts: divine revelation and legal notification. In the Gospel of John, Jesus uses the term to describe a spiritual revealing, promising he will **manifest** himself to those who love him and keep his commandments ([[John 14:21]], [[John 14:22]]). It is also used for Christ's appearance in heaven on our behalf [[Hebrews 9:24]] and for the resurrected saints who **appeared** to many after His resurrection [[Matthew 27:53]]. In the book of Acts, the word takes on a legal or official sense, where individuals **informed** a governor against Paul ([[Acts 24:1]], [[Acts 25:2]], [[Acts 25:15]]) or were instructed to **signify** a request to a chief captain [[Acts 23:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of `{{G1718}}`:
* `{{G1785}}` **entolḗ** (injunction, i.e. an authoritative prescription): The promise to **manifest** `{{G1718}}` in [[John 14:21]] is directly linked to keeping Jesus's **commandments**.
* `{{G1934}}` **epizētéō** (to search (inquire) for; intensively, to demand, to crave): In [[Hebrews 11:14]], the act of plainly declaring `{{G1718}}` is explained by the fact that they **seek** a heavenly country.
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to "lay" forth, i.e. (figuratively) relate): This word is used for the verbal act that prompts or accompanies a manifestation, such as when Judas **saith** something in response to Jesus's promise to **manifest** himself [[John 14:22]] or when people **say** things that **declare plainly** their hope [[Hebrews 11:14]].
* `{{G4489}}` **rhḗtōr** (a speaker, i.e. (by implication) a forensic advocate): This term is directly linked to the legal use of `{{G1718}}`, as an **orator** is the one who **informed** the governor in the case against Paul [[Acts 24:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1718}}` is centered on the concept of revelation and testimony.
* **Divine Revelation:** The word is crucial for understanding how God reveals himself. It is used for Christ's choice to **manifest** himself spiritually to believers [[John 14:21]], His physical post-resurrection **appearance** [[Matthew 27:53]], and his ongoing work of **appearing** before the Father for us [[Hebrews 9:24]].
* **Making Truth Known:** In its legal uses in Acts, `{{G1718}}` signifies the act of bringing information before an authority, whether as an accusation or a formal request ([[Acts 24:1]], [[Acts 23:15]]). This highlights the importance of testimony and bearing witness to what one has seen or knows.
* **Declaration of Hope:** The word captures the believer's public witness. In [[Hebrews 11:14]], the patriarchs **declare plainly** their faith in a future promise, linking the act of making something known with the substance of faith itself.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1718}}` **emphanízō** is a dynamic term that bridges the gap between the unseen and the seen. It encompasses the profound spiritual act of Christ manifesting himself to his followers [[John 14:21]], the official act of informing an authority [[Acts 24:1]], and the faith-filled act of declaring one's hope in God's promises [[Hebrews 11:14]]. Through its various uses, the word illustrates that making truth known—whether it is a divine person, a legal case, or a statement of faith—is a deliberate and significant action.
TRV