### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **martyría**, represented by `{{G3141}}`, provides the essential concept of **testimony**, **record**, or **witness**. It appears **37 times** across **33 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is rooted in providing evidence, whether in a judicial context or as a personal or divine declaration of truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3141}}` is used in several critical contexts. It is frequently associated with the "testimony of Jesus," a core proclamation for which believers are known [[Revelation 12:17]]. This witness is so central that John was on Patmos "for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ" [[Revelation 1:9]]. The term also carries the weight of a legal declaration, as when the chief priests "sought for witness against Jesus" [[Mark 14:55]]. Ultimately, the concept is elevated to God's own declaration; [[1 John 5:9]] contrasts the "witness of men" with the "witness of God," which is greater and testifies about His Son.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the nature and purpose of giving testimony:
* `{{G3140}}` **martyréō** (to be a witness, i.e. testify): This is the verb form of martyría, signifying the action of giving a witness. It is used when Jesus says the works the Father has given him to do "bear witness of me" [[John 5:36]].
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see... to know): Testimony is often based on firsthand knowledge. John links his true record to the fact that he **knoweth** what he says is true [[John 19:35]], and his record is of things he **saw** [[Revelation 1:2]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): The testimony of believers is often expressed through the spoken or proclaimed **word**. Believers overcome by "the **word** of their testimony" [[Revelation 12:11]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith... believe): The primary goal of testimony is often to inspire faith. John the Baptist came for a witness, "that all men through him might **believe**" [[John 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3141}}` is significant, forming a basis for truth, faith, and discipleship.
* **The Divine Record:** The ultimate testimony is from God Himself. This **record** is that God has given believers eternal life through His Son [[1 John 5:11]]. To reject this testimony is to make God a liar [[1 John 5:10]].
* **The Foundation of Faith:** Testimony serves as the evidence upon which faith is built. John gives his **record** of what he saw so that others "might believe" [[John 19:35]]. Believing in the Son of God means having this **witness** within oneself [[1 John 5:10]].
* **The Prophetic Witness:** The testimony about Jesus is the very essence of prophetic utterance. As the angel tells John, "the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy" [[Revelation 19:10]].
* **The Cost of Witness:** Bearing testimony to Jesus is directly linked to suffering and martyrdom. The souls under the altar were slain "for the testimony which they held" [[Revelation 6:9]], and others were "beheaded for the witness of Jesus" [[Revelation 20:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3141}}` is far more than a simple declaration. It is a cornerstone concept that defines the verifiable truth of God's work in Christ, the evidence presented to the world, and the life-and-death commitment of those who proclaim it. From a legal statement to the very spirit of prophecy, **martyría** illustrates how a believer's witness is anchored in the ultimate testimony of God Himself.
TRV