### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hermēneúō**, represented by `{{G2059}}`, means to **translate** or **interpret**. Derived from a term associated with Hermes, the mythological god of language, its purpose in scripture is to provide clarification. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, serving as a bridge to ensure the reader understands the meaning of specific names and titles.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2059}}` functions as a direct explanatory note. When disciples address Jesus as "Rabbi," the text immediately clarifies this is a title "being **interpreted**, Master" [[John 1:38]]. Similarly, Jesus renames Simon to "Cephas, which is by **interpretation**, A stone" [[John 1:42]]. The word is also used to explain place names, such as the pool of "Siloam, (which is by **interpretation**, Sent)" [[John 9:7]]. In the book of Hebrews, the name of the ancient king Melchizedek is explained as "being by **interpretation** King of righteousness" [[Hebrews 7:2]], which is essential for the author's theological argument.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of communication that necessitates interpretation:
* `{{G2036}}` **épō** (to speak or say): This verb often introduces the word or phrase that requires translation. For example, Jesus **said**, "Thou art Simon... thou shalt be called Cephas," which is then followed by the interpretation [[John 1:42]].
* `{{G2564}}` **kaléō** (to call): This term is directly linked to naming. Jesus declares that Simon "shalt be **called** Cephas," which triggers the need for the name's meaning to be interpreted [[John 1:42]]. It also refers to a divine vocation, as when believers are **called** out of darkness [[1 Peter 2:9]].
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to say or relate): This verb for speaking is used to frame the act of translation itself, as in the phrase "which is to **say**, being interpreted" [[John 1:38]]. It sets up the word or statement that `{{G2059}}` will clarify.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2059}}` lies in its function of revealing essential truths that would otherwise be lost in translation.
* **Christological Clarity:** The word is used to define key titles and identities related to Christ. Interpreting "Rabbi" as "Master" establishes Jesus's authority from his first encounter with his disciples [[John 1:38]]. Explaining "Cephas" as "A stone" defines Peter's role in the foundation of the church [[John 1:42]].
* **Symbolic Meaning:** The interpretation of "Siloam" as "Sent" [[John 9:7]] adds a layer of symbolic meaning to Jesus's command, connecting the act of washing to Jesus himself as the one "sent" from God.
* **Typological Argument:** The interpretation of Melchizedek's name as "King of righteousness" and his title King of Salem as "King of peace" is a critical component of the argument in Hebrews for Christ's superior priesthood [[Hebrews 7:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2059}}` is a precise tool used in scripture to ensure clarity and reveal deeper meaning. Though used sparingly, it is vital for understanding the significance of key names, titles, and places. By translating these terms, the biblical authors ensure that theological points, Christological identities, and symbolic actions are fully accessible to the reader, bridging linguistic and cultural gaps to convey divine truth.
TRV