apparently a primary verb; to "nod", i.e. (by analogy), signal:--beckon.
Transliteration:neúō
Pronunciation:nyoo'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G3506}}` νεύω (neúō) is a primary verb, conveying the core meaning of "to nod," and by extension, "to signal" or "to beckon." Its fundamental sense involves a non-verbal gesture, typically with the head, but also capable of being extended to other body parts (e.g., the hand or eye) to convey a message without speech. This gesture can communicate assent, dissent, a command, a request for attention, or a silent direction. It implies a swift, often discreet, and immediate form of communication, distinct from spoken words. The emphasis is on the physical act of signaling rather than the content of an elaborate message.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G3506}}` νεύω appears sparingly in the New Testament, yet each instance provides a clear illustration of its function in conveying non-verbal communication:
* **[[John 13:24]]**: During the Last Supper, after Jesus indicates that one of the disciples will betray Him, Simon Peter [[John 13:24]] "beckoned" (ἐνένευσεν, a compound of νεύω) to the beloved disciple, John, who was reclining next to Jesus. The context reveals urgency and a desire for discretion. Peter wished to ascertain the identity of the betrayer without drawing undue attention, hence the use of a silent, physical signal. This act highlights the intimate setting and the gravity of the revelation, where a direct verbal query might have been too disruptive or public.
* **[[Acts 24:10]]**: In his defense before Governor Felix, Paul [[Acts 24:10]] "beckoned" (ἐνένευσεν, again a compound of νεύω) with his hand for the people to be silent or for himself to speak. This gesture served as a signal to gain attention or permission, indicating his readiness to address the court and to ensure an orderly hearing. It demonstrates a formal, public use of the gesture, conveying a request for decorum and an acknowledgment of the authority present.
In both instances, `{{G3506}}` νεύω (or its compound form) underscores the efficacy and necessity of non-verbal cues in human interaction, whether for intimate, discreet communication or for formal, public address.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{G3506}}` νεύω includes other terms related to signaling and communication, particularly non-verbal forms:
* `{{G3509}}` νεῦμα (neúma): This is the noun form directly derived from `{{G3506}}` νεύω, meaning "a nod" or "a sign." It encapsulates the physical gesture itself.
* `{{G1723}}` ἐννεύω (enneúō): A compound verb, often translated as "to make a sign" or "to beckon," particularly with the eyes. This is the exact form used in [[John 13:24]] and [[Acts 24:10]], intensifying or specifying the nature of the beckoning.
* `{{G4595}}` σημαίνω (sēmainō): To signify, indicate, or make known by a sign. This is a broader term for conveying information, not limited to physical gestures.
* `{{G4717}}` σιγάω (sigaō): To be silent, to keep quiet. Often, a beckoning gesture (as in [[Acts 24:10]]) is made to elicit silence before speaking.
* `{{G5585}}` ψιθυριστής (psithyristēs): A whisperer, one who communicates secretly. While νεύω is a gesture, it can be employed for similarly discreet communication.
These related terms highlight the varied ways in which messages, both overt and covert, are transmitted within biblical narratives, underscoring the richness of human interaction.
### Theological Significance
While `{{G3506}}` νεύω is primarily a descriptive verb of human action and does not carry intrinsic theological weight like terms for salvation or grace, its occurrences contribute to the theological narrative by illustrating:
* **The Humanity of Christ's Disciples and Apostles:** The use of νεύω in the New Testament portrays the disciples and Paul as fully human individuals who engage in common forms of communication. Peter's urgent beckoning in [[John 13:24]] reveals his human concern and desire for knowledge, while Paul's gesture in [[Acts 24:10]] demonstrates his composure and practical approach to public discourse. These moments ground the sacred narrative in relatable human experience.
* **The Dynamics of Communication in the Early Church:** The need for discreet or attention-grabbing signals underscores the practicalities of communal life and evangelism. In a world without modern amplification, non-verbal cues were essential for managing crowds, conveying urgent messages, and maintaining order during teaching or trials.
* **Divine Revelation and Human Response:** Although the gesture itself is mundane, its placement within pivotal moments (e.g., the revelation of the betrayer, a defense of the Gospel) shows how ordinary human interactions serve as conduits for divine truth and the unfolding of God's plan. The human act of beckoning facilitates the reception or delivery of significant spiritual information.
Thus, `{{G3506}}` νεύω provides a subtle but important detail, enriching our understanding of the lived reality of biblical figures and the practical means by which divine purposes were advanced through human interaction.
### Summary
`{{G3506}}` νεύω (neúō) is a Greek verb meaning "to nod," "to signal," or "to beckon." It describes a non-verbal gesture, often with the head or hand, used to convey a message discreetly or to gain attention. Its limited but significant occurrences in the New Testament, specifically in [[John 13:24]] and [[Acts 24:10]], illustrate its use in contexts requiring urgent, private communication or a formal request for attention. While not bearing direct theological meaning, `{{G3506}}` νεύω illuminates the practical, human dimension of biblical interactions, showcasing how ordinary gestures played a vital role in the unfolding of divine narrative and the communication among Christ's followers and those they encountered.
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