from ἐνδείκνυμι; an indication (concretely):--manifest token.
Transliteration:éndeigma
Pronunciation:en'-dighe-mah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun *ἔνδειγμα* (éndeigma, `{{G1730}}`) is derived from the verb *ἐνδείκνυμι* (endeiknymi, `{{G1731}}`), which means "to show forth, to demonstrate, to prove, or to exhibit." Consequently, *ἔνδειγμα* signifies a concrete "indication," "proof," "token," or "demonstration." It is not a mere suggestion or hint, but a tangible and discernible sign that points to or confirms a particular reality. The term implies a clear, undeniable manifestation or evidence, often with the underlying purpose of revelation, confirmation, or warning. It suggests something that is overtly displayed or made evident, serving as a clear pointer to an underlying truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
*ἔνδειγμα* appears twice in the New Testament, both times in Pauline epistles, conveying a strong sense of demonstrative proof:
* **[[2 Thessalonians 1:5]]**: "This is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer."
* In this context, the "manifest token" (ἔνδειγμα) refers to the suffering endured by the Thessalonian believers, juxtaposed with God's impending judgment upon their persecutors. Paul presents this suffering, coupled with the certainty of divine retribution, as undeniable evidence of God's righteous judgment. It serves as a clear sign that God is just and will ultimately bring about a proper resolution, vindicating the faithful and punishing those who afflict them. The very experience of tribulation, when understood within God's sovereign plan, becomes a powerful demonstration of His active and righteous governance.
* **[[Philippians 1:28]]**: "And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God."
* Here, the "evident token" (ἔνδειγμα) is the steadfastness and lack of fear exhibited by the Philippian believers in the face of opposition. This unwavering faith and courage serve as a dual sign. For their adversaries, it is a clear proof (token) of their own impending destruction or perdition. Conversely, for the believers themselves, their endurance is an equally clear sign (proof) of their own salvation, which originates from God. The *ἔνδειγμα* in this verse is the observable conduct of the believers, which simultaneously reveals different destinies for two distinct groups.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G1731}}` *ἐνδείκνυμι* (endeiknymi):** The verbal root from which *ἔνδειγμα* is derived, meaning "to show, demonstrate, or prove." *ἔνδειγμα* is the concrete result or object of this act of showing.
* **`{{G3962}}` *πάθος* (pathos):** Suffering, a key element in the context of [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]], where suffering itself functions as the "token" of God's judgment.
* **`{{G4748}}` *σημεῖον* (sēmeion):** A "sign" or "wonder," often referring to a miraculous event serving as an attestation or proof. While *ἔνδειγμα* shares the idea of "sign," it emphasizes the inherent demonstrative quality of an event or characteristic rather than necessarily a miraculous display.
* **`{{G5059}}` *τεκμήριον* (tekmērion):** An "infallible proof" or "sure sign," as seen in [[Acts 1:3]] regarding Christ's resurrection. *ἔνδειγμα* carries a similar weight of certainty and undeniable evidence, though *τεκμήριον* might imply a more logically compelling or irrefutable demonstration.
* **Justice and Judgment:** The concept of divine justice is central to both occurrences of *ἔνδειγμα*, where the "token" serves to confirm God's righteous dealings and ultimate vindication of His people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *ἔνδειγμα* lies in its function as a divine indicator, revealing God's character, purposes, and active involvement through observable human experience and conduct. In both instances where it appears, the "token" is not an extraordinary divine miracle, but rather an ordinary, albeit challenging, reality (suffering, steadfastness) that, when interpreted through a theological lens, serves as undeniable evidence of God's active presence and impending resolution.
This word underscores the profound truth that God's justice is not merely an abstract concept but is tangibly demonstrated in the world, even amidst adversity and persecution. The suffering of the righteous and the unwavering faith of believers become concrete, visible proofs of God's righteous judgment and ultimate salvation. *ἔνδειγμα* highlights God's commitment to revealing His will and character, providing clear signs for believers to discern His hand and for unbelievers to be warned of coming judgment. It offers profound assurance to believers that their trials are not meaningless but are part of a larger divine plan, serving as a "token" of their ultimate vindication and the sovereign establishment of God's righteous reign.
### Summary
*ἔνδειγμα* (éndeigma, `{{G1730}}`) denotes a "manifest token" or "concrete indication," a tangible sign that serves as undeniable proof or demonstration. Its two New Testament occurrences reveal it as an observable reality that testifies powerfully to God's righteous judgment and His work of salvation. In [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]], the suffering of believers is presented as a token of God's righteous judgment, assuring divine vindication. In [[Philippians 1:28]], the believers' steadfastness in the face of opposition is an evident token of perdition for their adversaries and salvation for the faithful. This word emphasizes God's active demonstration of His character and purposes through human experience, providing clear, discernible signs of His justice and ultimate redemptive plan.
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