neuter of a presumed derivative of μάρτυς; something evidential, i.e. (genitive case) evidence given or (specially), the Decalogue (in the sacred Tabernacle):--to be testified, testimony, witness.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **martýrion**, represented by `{{G3142}}`, means **testimony**, **witness**, or something evidential. It appears **20 times** in **20 unique verses** throughout the Bible. Its meaning encompasses evidence given, a matter to be testified, and specifically refers to the Decalogue contained within the sacred Tabernacle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3142}}` is used to convey several distinct concepts of witness. It is the central purpose of preaching the **gospel** of the kingdom, which serves as a **witness** to all nations before the end comes [[Matthew 24:14]]. It also functions as a formal act of adherence to the Law, as when Jesus commanded a cleansed man to offer a gift to the priest as a **testimony** ([[Matthew 8:4]], [[Mark 1:44]]). Conversely, it can be a **testimony** *against* those who reject the message; disciples were instructed to shake the dust from their feet as a **testimony** against unreceptive cities ([[Mark 6:11]], [[Luke 9:5]]). The word also has an Old Testament connection, referring to the "tabernacle of **witness**" in the wilderness [[Acts 7:44]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the full scope of `{{G3142}}`:
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (a good message, i.e. the gospel): This is the content of the testimony. The gospel is preached for a **witness** [[Matthew 24:14]], and believers are called not to be ashamed of this **testimony** [[2 Timothy 1:8]].
* `{{G2784}}` **kērýssō** (to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth): This describes the action of delivering the testimony. The gospel of the kingdom must be **preached** as a witness to the world [[Matthew 24:14]].
* `{{G4633}}` **skēnḗ** (a tent or cloth hut (literally or figuratively)): This word is used for the **tabernacle** of witness, which housed the Law, God's foundational testimony to Israel ([[Acts 7:44]], [[Revelation 15:5]]).
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel): These are the primary agents who deliver the testimony. The **apostles** gave **witness** with great power of the resurrection of Jesus [[Acts 4:33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3142}}` is significant and multifaceted.
* **Christ-Centered Proclamation:** The **testimony** is fundamentally about Jesus Christ. It is called "the **testimony** of Christ" [[1 Corinthians 1:6]] and "the **testimony** of our Lord" [[2 Timothy 1:8]]. The substance of this witness is that Christ "gave himself a ransom for all, to be **testified** in due time" [[1 Timothy 2:6]].
* **Evidential Confirmation:** The **testimony** serves to confirm the work of God in believers. The **testimony** of Christ was confirmed in the Corinthians [[1 Corinthians 1:6]], and the Thessalonians' belief in the apostles' **testimony** was a sign of their inclusion among the saints [[2 Thessalonians 1:10]].
* **A Standard for Judgment:** The witness acts as a dividing line. For those who reject it, the act of rejection itself becomes a **testimony** against them ([[Mark 13:9]], [[Luke 9:5]]). Even the cankered gold and silver of the rich will be a **witness** against them in the last days [[James 5:3]].
* **Old Covenant Foundation:** The concept is anchored in the Law, with Moses being faithful as a servant "for a **testimony** of those things which were to be spoken after" [[Hebrews 3:5]], and the Tabernacle itself being the "tabernacle of the **testimony**" [[Revelation 15:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3142}}` is a crucial biblical term that signifies more than simple evidence. It is the active, declarative witness of God's truth, centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ. From the Decalogue in the tabernacle of **witness** to the apostles' powerful **witness** of the resurrection, **martýrion** serves as the foundation for belief, the substance of preaching, and the standard by which humanity is judged. It is the evidence of God presented to the world, which either confirms faith or stands as a **testimony** against unbelief.
TRV