### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **enthýmēsis**, represented by `{{G1761}}`, refers to a deliberation, translated as **thought** or **device**. It is derived from the word ἐνθυμέομαι (enthyméomai). It appears **4 times** in the New Testament across **4 unique verses**, highlighting its specific application to the inner workings of the mind and heart.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1761}}` is used to describe the internal reasonings of people, which are known to God. In the Gospels, Jesus is shown as knowing the **thoughts** of the scribes and Pharisees, demonstrating his divine insight into their hearts ([[Matthew 9:4]], [[Matthew 12:25]]). In Acts, the word is translated as **device** when Paul argues that the Godhead is not like something created by "man's **device**" [[Acts 17:29]]. The author of Hebrews uses it to describe how the Word of God is a discerner of the **thoughts** and intents of the heart [[Hebrews 4:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G1761}}`:
* `{{G1760}}` **enthyméomai** (think): This is the root verb, meaning "to be inspirited, i.e. ponder." It appears in the same verse as its noun form when Jesus, after perceiving their thoughts, asks, "Wherefore **think** ye evil in your hearts?" [[Matthew 9:4]].
* `{{G1771}}` **énnoia** (intent, mind): Defined as "thoughtfulness, i.e. moral understanding," this word is paired directly with `{{G1761}}` to describe what the Word of God discerns: "the thoughts and **intents** of the heart" [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (heart): This word, meaning "the heart, i.e. (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind)," is consistently presented as the source of `enthýmēsis`. This is seen when Jesus perceives the evil thoughts originating in their **hearts** [[Matthew 9:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1761}}` centers on the nature of thought and divine omniscience.
* **Divine Knowledge of the Heart:** The use of `enthýmēsis` in Matthew's Gospel underscores that Jesus possesses the ability to know the innermost deliberations of a person, a quality attributed to God ([[Matthew 9:4]], [[Matthew 12:25]]).
* **The Discerning Power of Scripture:** The Word of God is shown to be powerful and active, able to penetrate the soul and spirit to judge the **thoughts** of the heart, revealing the true nature of a person's inner life [[Hebrews 4:12]].
* **Limitation of Human Reason:** In Athens, the word is used to contrast the living God with idols. It highlights the error of using human ingenuity and "device" to form an image of the Godhead, which transcends such conceptions [[Acts 17:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1761}}` is a precise term for the mind's deliberations and reasoned plans. It is not a fleeting idea but a considered **thought** or **device**. Its biblical usage consistently places these inner workings in direct relation to God, who both knows them perfectly and judges them by His Word. The term reveals that the hidden realm of human thought is fully transparent and accountable to the Creator.
TRV