The Greek word sēmaínō, represented by G4591, means to indicate or signify. Derived from a word meaning "a mark," it appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage consistently points to the act of making something known, often revealing a specific future event, manner, or outcome.
In scripture, G4591 is used to convey crucial information about specific circumstances. It appears in a prophetic context, such as when God signified future events through an angel in the book of Revelation Revelation 1:1, or when the prophet Agabus signified by the Spirit that a great famine would occur Acts 11:28. The word is particularly used in the Gospel of John to describe how Jesus signified the kind of death he would die (John 12:33, John 18:32) and also the death by which the apostle Peter would glorify God John 21:19. A secular use is found in Acts, where Festus finds it unreasonable to send a prisoner without also having to signify the charges against him Acts 25:27.
Several related words help clarify the action and context of signifying:
- G1166 deiknýō (to shew): This word works in tandem with signifying. God's purpose in Revelation is "to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass," and he accomplishes this when he "sent and signified it" Revelation 1:1.
- G3056 lógos (word, saying): Signification is often achieved through speech. The events of the crucifixion took place so that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spoke when signifying his death John 18:32.
- G4151 pneûma (spirit): The source of divine indication can be the Holy Spirit. The prophet Agabus signified the coming dearth "by the Spirit" Acts 11:28.
- G1392 doxázō (to glorify): An event that has been signified can have a specific purpose. Jesus' words signified the manner of death by which Peter was to glorify God John 21:19.
The theological weight of G4591 lies in its direct connection to divine revelation and predetermined purpose.
- Divine Revelation: The word highlights God's communication of his plans to humanity. He signified the complex events of the end times to his servant John, making them known Revelation 1:1.
- Prophetic Fulfillment: The use of G4591 underscores the certainty of Christ's words. Jesus signified his death to fulfill his own "saying" G3056, demonstrating his authority and foreknowledge John 18:32.
- Purpose in Suffering: The term frames death and hardship within God's plan. Jesus's speech about Peter's future signified not just a death, but a death that would ultimately glorify G1392 God John 21:19.
In summary, sēmaínō G4591 is a precise term for revealing or indicating specific information. Though rare, its usage is critical for understanding how God makes His will and plans known. It points to the prophetic revealing of future events, the exact manner of death for Christ and His followers, and the divine purpose that undergirds all things.
TRV