The Greek word enypniázomai, represented by G1797, means to dream. As the middle voice form of G1798 (enýpnion), it refers to the act of dreaming or to one who dreams. It is a rare term, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses within the Bible, but its uses present a significant contrast.
The two biblical occurrences of G1797 show how the act of dreaming can be viewed in opposite ways. In Acts, it is part of a divine promise where, in the last days, God will pour out His Spirit and "your old men shall dream dreams" Acts 2:17. Here, it is a legitimate form of revelation. In stark contrast, Jude uses the term negatively to describe false teachers as "filthy dreamers" who defile the flesh and despise authority Jude 1:8.
Several related words help clarify the context of dreaming as a form of spiritual communication:
- G1798 enýpnion (something seen in sleep, i.e. a dream): This is the noun form from which G1797 is derived and appears alongside it in the phrase "dream dreams" Acts 2:17.
- G4151 pneûma (a spirit...the Holy Spirit): The act of divinely inspired dreaming in Acts is a direct result of God pouring out his Spirit upon all flesh Acts 2:17.
- G4395 prophēteúō (to speak under inspiration, exercise the prophetic office): Dreaming is listed alongside the act to prophesy as a sign of the Spirit's work Acts 2:17.
- G3706 hórasis (an inspired appearance): In the same prophetic promise, young men will see visions, placing dreaming in the same category of divine revelation Acts 2:17.
The theological weight of G1797 is tied to its dual application, representing both divine inspiration and human corruption.
- A Sign of the Spirit: As stated in the prophecy in Acts, dreaming is presented as a legitimate means by which God communicates with His people. It is a promised activity resulting from the outpouring of His G4151 Spirit in the last days Acts 2:17.
- A Mark of Corruption: In Jude, the term "dreamers" is used to condemn false teachers. Their "dreams" are associated not with divine truth but with defilement, rebellion, and speaking evil of dignities, indicating a source other than God Jude 1:8.
In summary, while G1797 is used infrequently, its meaning is significant. It illustrates that the value of a dream or spiritual experience is determined entirely by its source. It can be a genuine expression of God's communication through His Spirit, as prophesied in Acts, or it can be a mark of delusion and ungodliness, as warned against in Jude. The word serves as a reminder to discern the origin of spiritual manifestations.
TRV