probably from the same base as μασσάομαι and μνάομαι (i.e. , to strive); to disclose (through the idea of mental effort and thus calling to mind), i.e. report, declare, intimate:--shew, tell.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mēnýō**, represented by `{{G3377}}`, means to disclose, report, or declare, often through mental effort. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The word conveys the act of bringing something to light, whether it is a hidden truth, a secret plot, or a piece of crucial information.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3377}}` highlights the importance of revealed information. Jesus uses it to explain that even Moses **shewed** the truth of the resurrection at the bush [[Luke 20:37]]. In a different context, the chief priests and Pharisees issued a commandment that if anyone knew where Jesus was, he should **shew** it so they could seize him [[John 11:57]]. The word is also used in a legal sense when a plot against a man's life was **told** to the chief captain, prompting him to take action [[Acts 23:30]]. Finally, it applies to matters of conscience, as when someone **shewed** that food was offered to idols [[1 Corinthians 10:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific nature of this disclosure:
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to say, tell, relate): While **légō** is a general term for speaking or relating a set discourse, **mēnýō** carries the more specific sense of revealing or making something known that was previously hidden or unknown [[Acts 23:30]].
* `{{G3853}}` **parangéllō** (to give in charge, command): This word for commanding is directly linked to **mēnýō** in [[Acts 23:30]], where the disclosure of a plot resulted in a **commandment** being given to the accusers. This shows how revealing information can lead to authoritative action.
* `{{G2725}}` **katḗgoros** (accuser): This term, meaning a complainant at law, appears in the same context as **mēnýō** in [[Acts 23:30]]. The act of "telling" (**mēnýō**) about the ambush leads to a formal legal process involving **accusers**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3377}}` centers on the act of revelation and its consequences.
* **Revealing Scriptural Truth:** The word is used to describe how Moses **shewed** a core theological concept—the resurrection of the dead—demonstrating that scripture discloses foundational truths [[Luke 20:37]].
* **Informing for Justice:** In Acts, a plot is **told**, leading to the protection of a man's life and a command for his **accusers** `{{G2725}}` to state their case formally, highlighting disclosure as a catalyst for justice [[Acts 23:30]].
* **Disclosure and Moral Obligation:** The word is tied to moral and religious duty. In [[John 11:57]], a **commandment** `{{G1785}}` was **given** `{{G1325}}` for people to **shew** where Jesus was. In [[1 Corinthians 10:28]], the act of showing that food was for idols is a matter of conscience.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3377}}` is a precise term for the act of disclosing significant information. It is not merely to speak, but to unveil, report, or make known a critical fact. Its use in scripture ranges from the revelation of divine doctrine and the reporting of criminal plots to the communication of information that affects moral and religious life, underscoring the power of bringing truth into the open.
TRV