### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἔνδειγμα (éndeigma)**, represented by `{{G1730}}`, means **an indication** or **manifest token**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in scripture. Its singular use provides a specific and powerful meaning: a concrete sign or piece of evidence that makes something clear.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1730}}` is in [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]], where the suffering of believers is described as a "**manifest token**" of the **righteous** `{{G1342}}` judgment of **God** `{{G2316}}`. In this context, hardship is not a sign of divine abandonment but rather a clear indication of a future, just verdict. This suffering is directly linked to the believers' calling, as the purpose of this token is so that they "may be **counted worthy** `{{G2661}}` of the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of God, for which ye also **suffer** `{{G3958}}`."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of `{{G1730}}`:
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (righteous): Defined as "equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy...just, meet, right(-eous)." This describes the nature of the judgment that `{{G1730}}` points to.
* `{{G2661}}` **kataxióō** (counted worthy): This means "to deem entirely deserving." It is the outcome for those whose suffering acts as a `{{G1730}}` of God's approval.
* `{{G3958}}` **páschō** (suffer): Meaning "to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful)," this is the very experience that serves as the "manifest token."
* `{{G932}}` **basileía** (kingdom): Defined as "royalty...rule, or...a realm," this is the inheritance for which believers are deemed worthy through their suffering [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1730}}` is focused on the interpretation of suffering.
* **Evidence of Righteous Judgment:** The word frames present suffering as a "manifest token" that God's future **judgment** `{{G2920}}` will be **righteous** `{{G1342}}`, vindicating the faithful [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]].
* **Suffering as a Positive Sign:** Rather than being a mark of punishment, the experience of **suffering** `{{G3958}}` becomes the very proof of one's connection to the **kingdom of God** `{{G932}}`.
* **Assurance of Worthiness:** The "token" serves to assure believers that their faithfulness amid hardship is the process by which they are **counted worthy** `{{G2661}}` to enter God's **kingdom** `{{G932}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1730}}` is a specific and impactful term. While used only once, it transforms the understanding of suffering from a negative trial into a "manifest token" of divine justice. Its context in [[2 Thessalonians 1:5]] shows that the difficulties faced by believers are a concrete sign pointing toward their vindication and worthiness for the kingdom of God.
TRV