from εὖ and the base of σημαίνω; well indicated, i.e. (figuratively) significant:--easy to be understood.
Transliteration:eúsēmos
Pronunciation:yoo'-say-mos
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective εὔσημος (eúsēmos), Strong's number `{{G2154}}`, is a compound word derived from εὖ (eu), meaning "well" or "good," and the root of σημαίνω (sēmainō), which means "to show by a sign," "to signify," or "to indicate." Literally, εὔσημος therefore means "well-indicated," "clearly marked," or "having a clear sign." Figuratively, and as used in the New Testament, its semantic range extends to "significant," "intelligible," "distinct," and "easy to be understood." The core emphasis is on clarity, unambiguous communication, and the absence of obscurity, ensuring that a message or sound is readily comprehensible to its intended audience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term εὔσημος appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[1 Corinthians 14:9]]. In this passage, the Apostle Paul is addressing the chaotic and unedifying use of spiritual gifts, particularly speaking in tongues, within the Corinthian church. He writes, "So also you, unless you utter by the tongue words easy to understand (εὔσημος), how will it be known what is spoken? For you will be speaking into the air."
The context of [[1 Corinthians 14]] is crucial for grasping the full weight of εὔσημος. Paul is contrasting the gift of tongues, which without interpretation is unintelligible to the listener, with prophecy, which is inherently clear and edifying. He uses several analogies—the flute or harp without distinct notes ([[1 Corinthians 14:7]]), and the trumpet giving an uncertain sound ([[1 Corinthians 14:8]])—to underscore the necessity of clarity in verbal communication. Just as a musical instrument must produce clear, identifiable notes to convey a melody, or a trumpet must give a distinct call to prepare for battle, so too must speech in the church be εὔσημος, "easy to be understood." The purpose of all spiritual gifts, Paul argues, is the edification of the body of Christ, which cannot occur if communication is obscure or incomprehensible. The use of εὔσημος here highlights that intelligibility is not merely a preference but a fundamental requirement for effective spiritual communication and communal growth.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological components of εὔσημος naturally connect it to several related Greek words and theological concepts.
* εὖ (eu): The prefix "well" or "good" (e.g., in εὐαγγέλιον - good news, gospel `{{G2098}}`) underscores that communication should not just be present, but *well* done, effectively conveying meaning.
* σημαίνω (sēmainō - `{{G4591}}`): The verbal root meaning "to show by a sign," "to signify," or "to indicate." This is the core concept of conveying meaning through a sign or symbol, which εὔσημος requires to be clear and unambiguous.
* σημεῖον (sēmeion - `{{G4592}}`): A noun meaning "a sign," "mark," or "token," often referring to a miracle or a significant indicator. This relates to the idea of something pointing clearly to a truth or reality.
* γλῶσσα (glōssa - `{{G1100}}`): "Tongue" or "language," particularly relevant in [[1 Corinthians 14]] where Paul discusses "speaking in tongues." The contrast is between γλῶσσα that is unintelligible and speech that is εὔσημος.
* ἑρμηνεία (hermēneia - `{{G2058}}`): "Interpretation" or "explanation." This word highlights the need for a message to be made clear if it is not already εὔσημος, especially in the case of speaking in tongues.
* The broader concepts of clarity, intelligibility, order, and edification are central to Paul's teaching in [[1 Corinthians 14]]. εὔσημος serves as a key descriptor for the kind of communication that fosters these virtues within the believing community.
### Theological Significance
Though appearing only once, the theological significance of εὔσημος is profound, particularly for ecclesiology and the theology of communication. Paul's use of this word in [[1 Corinthians 14:9]] reveals God's desire for order and intelligibility in corporate worship and spiritual expression.
1. **Divine Order and Clarity:** The very nature of God, as revealed in Scripture, is one of order, not confusion ([[1 Corinthians 14:33]]). εὔσημος communication reflects this divine attribute. God's revelation to humanity is inherently clear and understandable, and He expects the same clarity in human communication about Him.
2. **Edification of the Body:** The primary purpose of spiritual gifts and all congregational activities is the building up (edification) of believers. This edification is contingent upon understanding. If speech is not εὔσημος, it cannot instruct, encourage, or comfort, thus failing in its divine purpose.
3. **Accessibility of Truth:** The emphasis on "easy to be understood" underscores the principle that divine truth, as communicated within the church, should be accessible to all, not just a select few. This has implications for preaching, teaching, and even prayer, advocating for clarity over obscurity or elitism.
4. **Responsible Use of Gifts:** εὔσημος serves as a criterion for the responsible and loving exercise of spiritual gifts. While gifts are divinely empowered, their application must be governed by the principle of intelligibility for the common good. This implies a self-sacrificial posture where personal spiritual experience yields to communal benefit.
### Summary
The Greek word εὔσημος (eúsēmos - `{{G2154}}`) literally means "well-indicated" or "clearly marked," and figuratively, "easy to be understood" or "significant." Its singular, yet pivotal, appearance in [[1 Corinthians 14:9]] underscores the crucial importance of intelligible communication within the Christian assembly. Paul employs it to argue that all speech, particularly spiritual utterances like tongues, must be clear and comprehensible to the listeners if it is to serve its purpose of edifying the body of Christ. This word highlights the theological principle that God desires order, clarity, and understanding in worship and teaching, ensuring that spiritual gifts are exercised responsibly for the building up of the community rather than creating confusion. The demand for εὔσημος communication is thus a call to intentional clarity in all forms of spiritual expression, reflecting the orderly nature of God and promoting genuine spiritual growth.
TRV