### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sophízō**, represented by `{{G4679}}`, carries a dual meaning centered on wisdom and deception. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses**. Its definition is "to render wise," but in a sinister context, it means to "form 'sophisms', i.e. continue plausible error." This is reflected in its biblical translations as both "**make wise**" and "**cunningly devised**."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G4679}}` in scripture highlight its contrasting meanings. In a positive sense, Paul reminds Timothy that from childhood he has known the holy scriptures, which are able to **make** him **wise** unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus [[2 Timothy 3:15]]. Conversely, Peter uses the term in its negative sense, stating that the apostles did not follow "**cunningly devised**" fables when they proclaimed the power and coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty [[2 Peter 1:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concepts of true versus false wisdom:
* `{{G1107}}` **gnōrízō** (to make known): This word is used in direct contrast to the deception implied by `{{G4679}}`. The apostles did not rely on sophistry; instead, they **made known** the power of Christ [[2 Peter 1:16]].
* `{{G1121}}` **grámma** (a writing... scripture): This term points to the source of genuine wisdom. It is the holy **scriptures** that are able to "make wise" unto salvation [[2 Timothy 3:15]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (force... miraculous power): The apostolic message was not based on fables but on the reality of Christ's **power**, which they made known to their followers [[2 Peter 1:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4679}}` lies in the distinction it draws between divine truth and human error.
* **The Source of True Wisdom:** The word is used to affirm that the holy **scriptures** `{{G1121}}` are the means by which a person is **made wise** unto **salvation** `{{G4991}}` through **faith** `{{G4102}}` in Christ [[2 Timothy 3:15]].
* **The Rejection of Deception:** In its negative usage, `{{G4679}}` serves as a label for "cunningly devised" fables, which stand in opposition to the eyewitness testimony of Christ's **majesty** `{{G3168}}` and **power** `{{G1411}}` [[2 Peter 1:16]].
* **The Goal of Godly Wisdom:** The purpose of being "made wise" by the scriptures is explicitly stated as **salvation** `{{G4991}}`, differentiating it from worldly philosophies that cannot achieve this end [[2 Timothy 3:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4679}}` is a significant term that encapsulates the conflict between two kinds of wisdom. It simultaneously describes the process of becoming truly wise for salvation through God's revealed word and the act of creating plausible but false narratives. The word forces a choice between the wisdom that comes from the holy scriptures and the "cunningly devised" fables that originate from human invention.
TRV