### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hodēgéō**, represented by `{{G3594}}`, means **to show the way**, either literally or figuratively, and is translated as to **guide** or **lead**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in scripture, highlighting its specific and significant applications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3594}}` describes both divine and human guidance. The Spirit of truth is promised to **guide** believers into all truth [[John 16:13]]. In a parallel role, the Lamb in heaven will **lead** His people to living fountains of waters [[Revelation 7:17]]. The term is also used in a human context, such as when an Ethiopian official asks for someone to **guide** him in understanding the scriptures [[Acts 8:31]]. Conversely, the word is used negatively to warn against blind leaders who **lead** the blind, resulting in disaster for both ([[Matthew 15:14]], [[Luke 6:39]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of guidance and leadership:
* `{{G3595}}` **hodēgós** (a conductor, guide, leader): As the root word for `{{G3594}}`, it directly refers to the one doing the guiding. It is used to describe the "blind **leaders**" who wrongly attempt to **lead** the blind [[Matthew 15:14]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit, the Holy Spirit): This identifies the divine agent of guidance. It is the **Spirit** of truth who will **come** and **guide** believers into all truth [[John 16:13]].
* `{{G721}}` **arníon** (a lambkin): This term identifies the one who will **lead** the redeemed. In Revelation, "the **Lamb**... shall **lead** them unto living fountains of waters" [[Revelation 7:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3594}}` is significant, focusing on the source and purpose of spiritual direction.
* **Divine Agency in Guidance:** The guidance described by `{{G3594}}` is primarily divine. It is performed by the **Spirit** of truth [[John 16:13]] and by the **Lamb** [[Revelation 7:17]], establishing that true spiritual direction comes from God.
* **The Goal of Guidance:** The purpose of this divine leading is clear. The Spirit **guides** believers "into all truth" [[John 16:13]], while the Lamb **leads** them to "living fountains of waters," a picture of eternal sustenance [[Revelation 7:17]].
* **The Peril of Misguided Leadership:** The word also serves as a stark warning. The parables of the blind leading the blind illustrate the disastrous consequences of following unqualified or false guides, who lack the ability to see the proper path themselves ([[Matthew 15:14]], [[Luke 6:39]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3594}}` **hodēgéō** encapsulates the critical concept of guidance. While it can express a simple human need to be shown the way [[Acts 8:31]], its most significant use is theological. It defines the active role of the Holy Spirit in leading believers into all truth and the role of the Lamb in guiding the redeemed to their eternal reward. By contrasting this divine leadership with the failure of blind human guides, the word underscores the necessity of seeking and following the path shown by God.
TRV