### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tekmḗrion**, represented by `{{G5039}}`, refers to a **token (as defining a fact)** or a **criterion of certainty**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly significant in establishing the concept of an **infallible proof**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5039}}` is in the context of Christ's post-resurrection ministry. After his **passion** `{{G3958}}`, he **shewed** `{{G3936}}` himself **alive** `{{G2198}}` by many **infallible proofs** [[Acts 1:3]]. These proofs were not momentary glimpses; he was **seen** `{{G3700}}` by his followers over a period of **forty** `{{G5062}}` **days** `{{G2250}}`, during which he was **speaking** of things pertaining to the **kingdom** `{{G932}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Acts 1:3]] help clarify the nature of this proof:
* `{{G3936}}` **parístēmi** (to stand beside, i.e. (transitively) to exhibit, proffer, (specially), recommend, (figuratively) substantiate): This word, translated as "shewed," emphasizes the active and deliberate presentation of evidence by Christ himself.
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live (literally or figuratively)): This affirms the state that the proofs were intended to confirm—that Christ was truly **alive** after his death.
* `{{G3958}}` **páschō** (to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful)): This word, translated as "passion," sets the necessary backdrop. The proofs are significant because they occurred **after** he had verifiably suffered and died.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5039}}` is immense, despite its rarity. It establishes a critical foundation for Christian belief.
* **Evidential Basis of Faith:** The term anchors the resurrection not in abstract belief but in tangible, verifiable evidence. Christ provided a "criterion of certainty" to substantiate his claims [[Acts 1:3]].
* **Physicality of the Resurrection:** The "many infallible proofs" included being physically **seen** `{{G3700}}` over a sustained period of **forty days** `{{G5062}}`, confirming the bodily nature of his return.
* **Authentication of the Kingdom Message:** The proofs served to validate the messenger. By demonstrating he was **alive**, Christ authenticated his subsequent teaching about "the kingdom of God" [[Acts 1:3]].
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{G5039}}` is a cornerstone word. It defines the resurrection of Christ not as a mystical story but as a historically substantiated event confirmed by **infallible proofs**. This single term provides the "criterion of certainty" upon which the apostles' subsequent preaching and the message of the kingdom of God are built.
TRV